EAG Grants UAE Observer Status, Extends Technical Assistance to Iran

EAG chairman Yuri Chikhanchin confirmed the UAE’s request was approved, adding the country has been actively participating as a special guest in EAG programs for the past two years. With this move, the UAE joins the group of 16 nations, including Italy, the US, Japan, Germany, and France, in holding observer status. However, the UAE will not have voting rights in EAG discussions.

The EAG, which consists of nine full members, including Belarus, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, India, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, also decided to offer technical assistance to Iran. This support is aimed at helping Iran meet the standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to remove it from the FATF’s black list.

India, which received a ‘regular follow-up’ rating from FATF, the highest rating, had its report reviewed and approved at the EAG meeting. EAG chief Chikhanchin stated that India’s strong FATF rating will boost international investments.

Vivek Agarwal, head of the Indian delegation at the meeting, highlighted the significance of the UAE’s inclusion, noting that the UAE’s growing role within the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) will enhance cooperation between MENAFATF and EAG.

The 42nd plenary of the EAG will take place in Moscow on May 26, 2025.