Leaders pledge to intensify anti-corruption efforts

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HEILIGENDAMM, June 8 (Agencies): Leaders of the Group of Eight (G8) industrialised nations pledged here yesterday to intensify anti-corruption efforts, both at the national and international levels, terming the fight against corruption as "one of the most important tasks of the G8."
"We will intensify their (G8 members) common efforts to effectively combat corruption worldwide," said a summit declaration published on the official website of the annual G8 event.
"We are aware of their leadership role in setting examples in the fight against corruption, and are taking concerted action to live up to their commitments and responsibilities," it said.
In the document, the G8 leaders said they are committed to full implementation of their obligations under existing international agreements created to combat corruption, particularly those of the United Nations and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.
Measures agreed by the G8 included supporting the ratification by all countries of the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), coordinating efforts to implement UNCAC and supporting the work of UN Office of Drugs and Crime, Interpol and other international bodies.
They also promised to develop concrete strategies and best practices regarding specific aspects of combating corruption.
"For example, this will include implementing regional G8 workshops on the recovery of illicitly-obtained assets. We will also provide developing countries with enhanced capacity building assistance," said the declaration.
The G8 stressed that it would focus on preventing corruption and raising public awareness, in collaboration with the civil society.
Finally, the group of the world's major economic powers noted the "critical relationship" that exists between providing a stable, transparent, and corruption- free business climate, and the ability to attract much needed foreign direct investment.
Meanwhile, in the declaration released Thursday the G8 leaders said world economy is in good shape and world economic growth has become more balanced across the different regions.
"We note that the world economy is good condition," the statement said.
"Growth is now more balanced across regions, as it has moderated to a more sustainable pace in the United States, while domestic demand has strengthened in Europe and remains supported by robust investment in Japan," it said.

AIDS and Africa pledge criticised

Another report adds, World powers on Friday pledged $60 billion (30 billion pounds) to fight AIDS and other killer diseases ravaging Africa but development campaigners complained the Group of Eight had pledged little fresh cash for the poor.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel, hosting G8 leaders and leaders of five African states, trumpeted the agreement as a showpiece outcome of the three-day summit, along with Thursday's deal to push for greenhouse gas emissions cuts.
"We are conscious of our obligations and want to fulfil the promises we made. And we will do that," said Merkel.