H E Caroline Vermeulen, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Belgium to the United Nations and International Organisations in Vienna.
DOHA: Qatar’s commitment to transparency, multilateralism and the global fight against corruption was praised by a Belgium delegate at the Eleventh Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (COSP11) currently under way in Doha.
In an interview with The Peninsula, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Belgium to the United Nations and International Organisations in Vienna, H E Caroline Vermeulen, commended Qatar for hosting the conference for the second time, describing it as a “clear sign” of the country’s dedication to strengthening international cooperation against corruption.
She noted that the country has emerged as an active and constructive player on the multilateral stage, contributing not only to anti-corruption efforts but also to broader initiatives in mediation and global diplomacy.
Ambassador Vermeulen said, “COSP11 comes at a critical moment, more than two decades after the signing of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, providing an opportunity for countries to assess progress and identify ways to enhance the global response.”
She stressed that corruption and organised crime do not stop at national borders and remain major sources of instability and conflict, making forums such as COSP11 essential for fostering cooperation among States Parties.
Belgium is participating in the conference with a strong and diverse delegation, reflecting the priority its government places on good governance and anti-corruption. According to the Ambassador, Belgian experts attending the meeting cover the full spectrum of anti-corruption work, from prevention to law enforcement, underscoring the need for comprehensive and coordinated approaches.
“Robust anti-corruption systems are a prerequisite for effective international cooperation, while international cooperation itself is essential to combating corruption successfully,” she said.
“Belgium signed the Convention in 2003 and has since been a strong advocate for closer collaboration and for creating synergies among national, regional and international anti-corruption instruments, including those within the European Union and the OECD.”
The Ambassador also highlighted the crucial role of the private sector, saying businesses bear significant responsibility for promoting integrity through ethical leadership, compliance and transparency in supply chains. She pointed to initiatives in Doha that bring together public officials and private companies to exchange best practices and explore joint solutions, noting that a level playing field is vital for sustainable development.
Expressing appreciation to the host country, Ambassador Vermeulen said, “Qatar’s role in convening COSP11 reflects a shared objective with Belgium to act as responsible stakeholders in the multilateral system. It is important that we work together, respect international law and strengthen the global fight against corruption.”
