Nicosia: Acting Director-General of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), Salla Saastamoinen, has expressed strong encouragement for Cyprus to apply for support under the Union Anti-Fraud Programme (UAFP) in an effort to bolster its anti-fraud capabilities using EU funding. Her remarks were made during an interview with the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) ahead of her scheduled visit to Cyprus on November 26-27.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Saastamoinen praised the cooperation and openness of Cypriot authorities, highlighting their outstanding partnership as a model for EU collaboration. She emphasized that her visit is closely linked to preparations for the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union, and she noted the importance of Cyprus taking a leading role in protecting the EU’s financial interests. The visit marks the first time an OLAF Director-General has visited Cyprus, underlining the significance of the event in fostering stronger ties.
Saastamoinen outlined two primary objectives for her visit: establishing a robust connection with the Cypriot Presidency and evaluating on-ground cooperation. She stressed that Cyprus’s role is crucial at a time when the EU’s Anti-Fraud Architecture is under review, especially with the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) emphasizing national systems as the first line of defense against fraud.
The Director-General highlighted the need for Cyprus to make better use of EU funding to enhance its anti-fraud capacity, as Cypriot law enforcement and beneficiary authorities have not yet applied for support under the UAFP’s technical assistance and training component. She described the UAFP as a successful program offering financial support and specialized tools to safeguard EU financial interests.
Saastamoinen commended past successful collaborations with Cypriot authorities, particularly in customs-related cases and dismantling smuggling networks. She also noted the evolving landscape with the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) adding a judicial dimension to anti-fraud efforts, strengthening cooperation and prosecution of wrongdoers.
Highlighting Cyprus’s commitment, Saastamoinen affirmed that Cypriot authorities are fully dedicated to developing and implementing a National Anti-Fraud Strategy, with OLAF’s support. She underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and the effective use of the UAFP, advising Cyprus to enhance its IT and data management systems for better fraud control.
In conclusion, Saastamoinen acknowledged the progress made in Cyprus but emphasized that more work is needed to achieve stronger anti-fraud cooperation. Her visit is seen as a pivotal step towards a more effective partnership in the coming months.