StatementByRepresentative of the Islamic Republic of IranBeforeThe 15th Session of Working of Government Experts on Technical AssistanceAgenda Item (3): Organized fraud.(3 and 4 June 2024) In the name of God, the most Compassionate, the most merciful I would like to thank the panellists for their excellent presentations. Madam and Mr. Co-Chairs,Gathering all together under the auspices of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) is very important to confront "organized fraud" as one of the most complicated challenges of our time.The Islamic Republic of Iran is firmly committed to combating organized fraud and supports the principles and objectives outlined in the UNCAC and UNTOC. We recognize the serious impact that organized fraud can have on our society, economy, and the well-being of our citizens. As such, we are dedicated to implementing comprehensive measures to prevent, detect, and prosecute organized fraud activities. We understand that effectively addressing this threat requires a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, enforcement, international cooperation, and capacity building. Madam and Mr. Co-Chairs,The Islamic Republic of Iran is actively working to strengthen its legal framework to effectively address organized fraud. This includes enacting and enforcing stringent laws and regulations and enhancing law enforcement capabilities. In this regard, promoting international cooperation including through relevant international frameworks to combat cross-border organized fraud methods is of paramount importance.Furthermore, we are committed to raising awareness and educating our citizens about the risks and consequences of organized fraud. Through public outreach and educational programs, we aim to empower individuals and businesses to protect themselves against fraudulent activities including through the use of Information and Communications Technologies. We promote the regulatory frameworks that require financial institutions to implement severe anti-fraud measures, ensuring due diligence and transparency in financial transactions.The Islamic Republic of Iran is fully committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that those engaged in organized fraud are held accountable for their illegal actions. We will continue to work determinedly to safeguard the integrity of our financial system and protect the interests of our citizens. Madam and Mr. Co-Chairs,Transnational organized crime cannot be combated in isolation. Iran is calling for increased international cooperation, and information sharing among member states. We support initiatives that facilitate the exchange of best practices, intelligence, and technical expertise. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of mutual legal assistance and extradition agreements to ensure that perpetrators of organized fraud are brought to justice, regardless of where they operate.Effective law enforcement cooperation is crucial in dismantling organized fraud networks. Iran has bolstered its legal and institutional frameworks to enhance the detection, investigation, and prosecution of fraud-related crimes. Specialized units within our law enforcement entities have been established to focus on financial fraud and crimes committed through the use of Information and Communication Technologies. It is crucial to strengthen the capacity of national authorities in combating organized fraud.The Islamic Republic of Iran is dedicated to collaborating with UN bodies to improve the capabilities of its law enforcement. We emphasize the critical role of implementing training programs, providing unhindered technical assistance, transferring technologies and refraining from unilateral actions in this regard, and advancing facilitating and providing technological tools and equipment to improve fraud detection, prosecution, and investigation. Thanks for your attention!