San Jose, November 20 (QNA) - UN Special Advocate for the Prevention of Corruption Dr. Ali bin Fetais Al Marri, emphasized that the Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award serves as a global platform to honor exceptional efforts and highlight successful models that bring positive change to their communities.

In his speech during the ceremony honoring the winners of the eighth edition of the award, hosted by the Republic of Costa Rica, His Excellency praised the joint efforts of Qatar and Costa Rica in hosting and organizing this prestigious event. He noted that such initiatives contribute to fostering international cooperation and solidifying principles of integrity and justice worldwide.

He explained that the selection of Costa Rica to host the eighth edition of the award reflects international recognition of its pioneering efforts in promoting integrity, transparency, and combating corruption, as well as its inspirational role in this field. He remarked that the presence in Costa Rica reaffirms that combating corruption is not merely a dream but a realistic goal that can be achieved when dedicated individuals work sincerely and with a firm belief in a better future.

His Excellency called for a clear and comprehensive declaration of war against corruption, emphasizing the urgent need to focus on this critical issue in Latin America and other regions of the world.

In conclusion, Dr. Al Marri stressed that international collaboration between governments, civil society, and academic institutions is a fundamental pillar for successfully addressing this phenomenon, which hinders development and stability. (QNA)