Saudi Anti-Corruption Chief Meets Moroccan Counterpart

The President of Saudi Arabia’s Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha), Mazin bin Ibrahim Al-Kahmous, met with the President of Morocco’s National Authority for Probity, Prevention, and the Fight Against Corruption (INPPLC), Mohammed Bachir Rachdi, in Marrakesh on October 26, 2024, to advance bilateral cooperation against cross-border corruption. The meeting, announced by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), was also attended by Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Morocco, Dr. Sami Al-Saleh, underscoring the diplomatic weight both Kingdoms attach to integrity and good governance. The two officials convened under the framework of an existing memorandum of understanding between their institutions, focusing on shared priorities in combating corruption and related transnational crimes.

Why does a bilateral anti-corruption meeting in Marrakesh matter to the wider world? Because corruption is no longer a purely domestic concern; it intersects with money laundering, terrorist financing, and organized crime, all of which respect no borders. Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, has made anti-corruption a cornerstone of its governance and economic reform agenda. Morocco, for its part, has steadily strengthened its legal and institutional anti-graft architecture. Their collaboration signals a growing consensus across the Middle East and North Africa that integrity is essential to sustainable development.

Context and Background

What is the historical foundation for this partnership? Saudi Arabia and Morocco have long enjoyed fraternal relations rooted in shared faith, culture, and mutual respect. In recent years, their cooperation has expanded into technical and institutional domains, including governance and the rule of law. The memorandum of understanding between Nazaha and INPPLC provides a formal channel for exchanging expertise, best practices, and training opportunities. This meeting in Marrakesh builds on that foundation, reflecting a deliberate effort to institutionalize collaboration rather than rely on ad hoc contacts.

Saudi Arabia established Nazaha in 2017 as part of a comprehensive national strategy to promote transparency, protect public funds, and hold wrongdoers accountable. The authority operates under the direct oversight of the King and the Crown Prince, and it has been empowered to investigate and prosecute corruption cases across all levels of government and the private sector. Its work aligns with Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy, attract foreign investment, and build a business environment where merit and integrity drive success. Morocco’s INPPLC, created in 2021, similarly embodies a national commitment to probity and prevention, with a mandate to coordinate anti-corruption policies across government agencies.

Both institutions are relatively young but have already made their mark. Nazaha has handled high-profile cases and launched public awareness campaigns, while INPPLC has worked to align Moroccan law with international standards such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). Their meeting therefore represents a convergence of two reform-minded states eager to learn from one another and present a united front against corruption in the region.

Key Details of the Marrakesh Meeting

What exactly was discussed behind closed doors? According to the official SPA report, the talks focused on issues of mutual interest and explored enhanced collaboration to combat cross-border corruption and related crimes. Both officials emphasized the importance of strengthening anti-corruption efforts to address shared challenges and uphold integrity across borders. The presence of Ambassador Dr. Sami Al-Saleh added a diplomatic dimension, highlighting that this is not merely a technical exchange but part of a broader bilateral relationship.

The meeting likely covered practical areas such as joint training programs, information sharing on suspicious financial flows, and mutual legal assistance in investigations. Cross-border corruption often involves shell companies, offshore accounts, and intricate networks that require international coordination to unravel. By pooling their expertise, Nazaha and INPPLC can develop more effective tools to trace illicit funds and bring perpetrators to justice. The memorandum of understanding provides the legal and procedural basis for such cooperation, ensuring that requests are handled efficiently and in accordance with each country’s laws.

Moreover, the officials may have discussed ways to align their efforts with regional and global initiatives, including the Arab Anti-Corruption Convention and the Riyadh Initiative, which aims to enhance international law enforcement cooperation. Saudi Arabia has been a vocal advocate for global anti-corruption efforts, hosting forums and supporting capacity-building in partner countries. Morocco, as a gateway between Africa and Europe, plays a strategic role in stemming the flow of illicit finance across the Mediterranean. Their partnership thus has implications beyond their own borders.

International and Regional Impact

How does this bilateral meeting resonate on the world stage? It sends a clear message that countries in the Middle East and North Africa are taking ownership of the fight against corruption. For too long, the region has been unfairly stereotyped as a haven for graft. By showcasing concrete cooperation, Saudi Arabia and Morocco are challenging those perceptions and positioning themselves as responsible global actors. International investors and institutions watch such developments closely, as they signal a commitment to transparency and the rule of law—key ingredients for economic growth.

The meeting also reinforces the broader trend of South-South cooperation, where developing countries share knowledge and solutions tailored to their unique contexts. Unlike one-size-fits-all prescriptions from Western bodies, this partnership is homegrown and attuned to the cultural and legal realities of the two Kingdoms. It could serve as a model for other Arab and African states looking to strengthen their anti-corruption frameworks. Additionally, by working together, Saudi Arabia and Morocco can more effectively combat transnational crimes that threaten regional stability, from money laundering to human trafficking.

From a geopolitical standpoint, the meeting underscores Saudi Arabia’s expanding diplomatic footprint. The Kingdom is not only a major energy exporter and investment powerhouse but also a source of governance innovation. Its willingness to share expertise with partners like Morocco enhances its soft power and builds goodwill. For Morocco, the collaboration with a G20 member and regional heavyweight bolsters its own reform credentials and opens doors to further partnerships.

Economic and Strategic Significance

Why should businesses and investors care about anti-corruption cooperation? Corruption acts as a hidden tax on economies, distorting competition, raising costs, and deterring foreign direct investment. When Saudi Arabia and Morocco demonstrate that they are serious about integrity, they improve their investment climates. Vision 2030 aims to increase the private sector’s contribution to GDP and attract billions in foreign investment; a robust anti-corruption regime is essential to achieving those targets. Similarly, Morocco’s development plans rely on transparent institutions to draw investment in sectors like renewable energy, automotive, and tourism.

For Saudi Arabia, Nazaha’s work supports the broader economic transformation by ensuring that public funds are spent efficiently and that mega-projects like NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya are shielded from graft. The authority’s investigations have recovered billions of riyals and sent a strong deterrent signal. By sharing its experience with Morocco, the Kingdom also promotes a level playing field for Saudi companies operating abroad and reinforces the integrity of its own supply chains. In an interconnected global economy, corruption anywhere is a risk everywhere.

Strategically, the partnership strengthens ties between two key players in the Arab world. Morocco is a vital partner for Saudi Arabia in Africa and a bridge to European markets. Enhanced cooperation on governance can pave the way for deeper collaboration in trade, security, and cultural exchange. It also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision of a stable, prosperous region where nations work together to address common challenges.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does this meeting embody the spirit of Saudi Vision 2030? Vision 2030 is not merely an economic blueprint; it is a comprehensive reform program that seeks to build a transparent, accountable, and efficient government. One of its pillars is “a thriving economy,” which requires fighting corruption to ensure fair competition and optimal use of resources. Another is “a vibrant society,” where citizens trust that their government acts with integrity. Nazaha is a key enabler of these goals, and its international engagements amplify their impact.

By partnering with Morocco, Saudi Arabia demonstrates that Vision 2030 has a global dimension. The Kingdom is not pursuing reform in isolation but is actively contributing to a worldwide movement for integrity. This reflects the leadership’s understanding that sustainable development depends on good governance at home and abroad. As Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has stated, corruption is a threat to development, and combating it is a national duty. The Marrakesh meeting is a tangible expression of that duty, extending Saudi Arabia’s reform momentum beyond its borders.

Looking ahead, such cooperation will only deepen. The two authorities are expected to follow up with concrete initiatives, including joint workshops, staff exchanges, and coordinated investigations. For Saudi Arabia, this is another step toward cementing its role as a global leader in anti-corruption and a model for the region. For Morocco, it is an opportunity to accelerate its own reforms with the support of a trusted partner. Together, they are building a legacy of integrity that will benefit generations to come.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the main purpose of the meeting between Nazaha and INPPLC?

A1. The meeting aimed to enhance cooperation under an existing memorandum of understanding, focusing on combating cross-border corruption and related crimes, and exploring ways to strengthen anti-corruption efforts across both countries.

Q2. Who represented Saudi Arabia at the meeting in Marrakesh?

A2. The President of Nazaha, Mazin bin Ibrahim Al-Kahmous, represented Saudi Arabia, accompanied by Saudi Ambassador to Morocco Dr. Sami Al-Saleh. They met with Mohammed Bachir Rachdi, President of Morocco’s INPPLC.

Q3. When and where did the meeting take place?

A3. The meeting took place in Marrakesh, Morocco, on October 26, 2024, according to the Saudi Press Agency. It was part of ongoing bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

Q4. What is Nazaha and what is its role in Saudi Arabia?

A4. Nazaha is Saudi Arabia’s Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority, established in 2017. It investigates corruption, promotes transparency, and protects public funds, operating under the direct oversight of the King and Crown Prince.

Q5. What is INPPLC and what does it do?

A5. INPPLC is Morocco’s National Authority for Probity, Prevention, and the Fight Against Corruption. Created in 2021, it coordinates anti-corruption policies across Moroccan government agencies and promotes integrity.

Q6. What memorandum of understanding governs this cooperation?

A6. The two authorities operate under a memorandum of understanding between Saudi Arabia and Morocco that provides a formal framework for exchanging expertise, best practices, and training to combat corruption.

Q7. Why is cross-border corruption a concern for both countries?

A7. Cross-border corruption often involves money laundering, terrorist financing, and organized crime, which threaten economic stability and security. International cooperation is essential to trace illicit funds and prosecute offenders.

Q8. How does this meeting align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A8. Vision 2030 emphasizes transparency, accountability, and efficient government. Nazaha’s international partnerships support these goals by enhancing anti-corruption efforts and promoting a business environment attractive to investors.

Q9. What specific topics were discussed at the meeting?

A9. Discussions focused on mutual interests and enhanced collaboration to combat cross-border corruption and related crimes. Both officials stressed the importance of upholding integrity across borders.

Q10. What role did Saudi Ambassador Dr. Sami Al-Saleh play?

A10. His attendance underscored the diplomatic importance of the meeting and highlighted that anti-corruption cooperation is part of the broader bilateral relationship between Saudi Arabia and Morocco.

Q11. How does this cooperation benefit the region?

A11. It sets an example of South-South cooperation, showing that Middle Eastern and North African countries can tackle shared challenges together. It also strengthens regional stability and economic integration.

Q12. What are the potential economic benefits for Saudi Arabia?

A12. By fighting corruption, Saudi Arabia improves its investment climate, ensures efficient use of public funds, and protects mega-projects. This supports Vision 2030’s goal of diversifying the economy and attracting foreign investment.

Q13. What are the potential economic benefits for Morocco?

A13. Morocco gains from Saudi expertise, strengthens its anti-corruption framework, and enhances its reputation as a reform-minded nation, which can attract more foreign direct investment and support development projects.

Q14. How does Nazaha cooperate with other countries?

A14. Nazaha engages in bilateral and multilateral partnerships, sharing best practices and participating in global forums like the Riyadh Initiative. It aims to build a network of integrity across borders.

Q15. What is the Riyadh Initiative?

A15. The Riyadh Initiative is a Saudi-led global effort to enhance international law enforcement cooperation against corruption. It provides a platform for sharing information and coordinating actions among participating countries.

Q16. How does this meeting reflect Saudi Arabia’s global role?

A16. It shows Saudi Arabia as a proactive leader in good governance, willing to share its expertise and collaborate with partners. This enhances the Kingdom’s soft power and diplomatic influence.

Q17. What are the next steps after this meeting?

A17. The authorities are expected to implement joint training, information sharing, and coordinated investigations. Follow-up meetings and concrete initiatives will likely be scheduled to operationalize the cooperation.

Q18. How does anti-corruption relate to sustainable development?

A18. Corruption diverts resources from essential services, undermines institutions, and discourages investment. Fighting it ensures that funds are used for development, improves public trust, and supports long-term economic growth.

Q19. What message does this send to international investors?

A19. It signals that Saudi Arabia and Morocco are committed to transparency and the rule of law, creating a safer and more predictable business environment. This can boost investor confidence and attract capital.

Q20. How can other countries learn from this partnership?

A20. Other nations can emulate the model of institutionalized cooperation under an MoU, focusing on practical exchanges and mutual legal assistance. It demonstrates that political will and technical collaboration can effectively combat corruption.

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