ACTA President to QNA: National Day a significant milestone to reaffirm patriotism, support for wise leadership

HE President of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA) Hamad bin Nasser Al Misnad emphasized that the National Day is a significant milestone to reaffirm patriotism and support for the wise leadership in the renaissance process while preserving Qatar's customs, traditions, and national identity.In an exclusive statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), HE said that National Day is a cherished occasion from which we draw lessons and inspiration from the late founder's values to renew our determination to advance our country towards progress.ACTA President said that on this special occasion, we must renew our determination and pledge from the lessons learned to further advance and work diligently to contribute to the renaissance of Qatar and fulfill the aspirations of its honorable people.ACTA President commended the remarkable renaissance witnessed by Qatar under the wise leadership of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. These achievements serve as exceptional accomplishments and a model for success in various fields. Qatar's progress is built upon a wise vision and a promising future strategy aimed at achieving sustainable development and the well-being of its citizens.HE noted that Qatar's achievements span internally and externally, encompassing infrastructure development, economic diversification, promotion of education and scientific research, support for arts and culture, significant economic reforms, attracting foreign investment, and enhancing its regional and international role.HE explained that the renaissance positively impacted Qatar by improving the quality of life for its citizens through the provision of job opportunities, excellent healthcare services, and education. These achievements elevate Qatar's position on the international stage and contribute to enhancing peace and stability regionally and globally.Regarding ACTA's role, HE Hamad bin Nasser Al Misnad highlighted its efforts to prepare and develop various legislative tools related to anti-corruption and promoting integrity in Qatar. Over the years, several charters, laws, and regulations have been issued or amended in alignment with international standards.HE pointed out that the Authority's participation, in coordination with the Ministry of Finance, in enhancing the content of the executive regulations of Law No. (24) of 2015, issuing the law regulating tenders and auctions to comply with international standards related to integrity and transparency.HE noted the issuance of the Code of Conduct and Integrity of Public Employees, aimed at achieving the highest levels of transparency and integrity in the public sector while protecting public funds. Additionally, the Penal Code was amended to criminalize bribery of foreign public officials and employees of international public organizations, along with the Code of Criminal Procedure to enhance international cooperation and mutual legal assistance and the issuance of a law to protect victims and witnesses.HE highlighted the launch of the Sports Integrity, Transparency Enhancement Manual, reflecting the authority's commitment to coordinating and collaborating with all relevant national bodies in the field of sports to enhance transparency and integrity.HE said that the issuance of Law No. 9 of 2022 on the Right to Access Information is an essential tool to promote the investment climate in Qatar and move towards a knowledge-based society.Internationally, HE mentioned the preparation of a guide for international cooperation against corruption. The guide facilitates international cooperation between relevant authorities in Qatar and their counterparts in other countries, encompassing all relevant provisions in national legislation. It will be made available in the six United Nations languages and other languages in the future.The ACTA President reaffirmed that the Authority's most significant achievements in the previous period were several regional initiatives. Most notably, this year's Arab Youth Anti-Corruption Hackathon. This event brought together young programmers from 17 Arab countries and provided them with a unique opportunity to collaborate and develop innovative technological solutions to address corruption-related challenges. Through this initiative, innovative projects were implemented to enhance transparency in public procurement, protect whistleblowers, combat corruption in the sports and private sectors, report corruption related to water management, and support the digitization of education systems.HE added that these projects will undoubtedly play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development and enhancing transparency and integrity, as well as contribute to improving Qatar's ranking in relevant international indices.Qatar currently ranks second in the Gulf and Arab region of the Corruption Perceptions Index published by Transparency International for the third consecutive year, HE said.ACTA aims to complete updating Qatari legislation in line with international standards. They are also preparing for international review mechanisms and developing a set of preliminary legislative proposals that serve the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, promote transparency and integrity within the country, and improve Qatar's ranking in relevant international indices, HE said.HE pointed out that the Authority is currently working on preparing a Code of Integrity for suppliers and contractors. This initiative aims to enhance the systems, mechanisms, and procedures governing procurement and supply operations in ministries, government entities, and public institutions, complementing the existing Code of Conduct and Integrity of Public Employees. The Code of Integrity for suppliers and contractors addresses the other party involved in government procurement processes. Additionally, the Authority is working on developing a national framework to promote transparency and integrity in national institutions and entities. This framework includes precise criteria covering all aspects related to transparency and integrity within these entities, consistent with the laws and administrative regulations of the country and in accordance with the best international practices in this field.HE highlighted that ACTA is actively seeking to host the 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption in 2025, reflecting Qatar's leading role in combating corruption, promoting transparency, and upholding integrity. (QNA)