UAE And Netherlands Ministers Discuss Enhancing Judicial Cooperation Against Transnational Crime

Abdullah bin Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, UAE Minister of Justice, recently met with Foort van Oosten, Minister of Justice and Security of the Netherlands, in The Hague. Their discussions centred on enhancing judicial cooperation to tackle transnational organised crime and financial offenses like money laundering. This meeting underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing these global challenges.

Both ministers highlighted the significance of mutual legal assistance and effective judicial cooperation in combating cross-border criminal activities. They acknowledged that such crimes pose serious threats to international stability and security. The dialogue was seen as a crucial step in strengthening legal ties between the two nations, fostering trust and practical engagement.

Minister Al Nuaimi reiterated the UAE's dedication to deepening its legal partnership with the Netherlands and Europe. He stressed the UAE's commitment to fighting organised crime, including the misuse of virtual assets. Al Nuaimi also noted the UAE's pioneering role in digital transformation within judicial services, which can be mutually beneficial for both countries.

Minister van Oosten praised the UAE's efforts in promoting international judicial cooperation and tackling organised crime. He commended the progress made since implementing Bilateral Treaties on Extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance in August 2023. These treaties have facilitated 11 extradition requests from the UAE to the Netherlands, with more cases underway.

The ministers recognised asset tracing, freezing, and confiscation as vital tools against transnational criminal networks. They expressed their intent to enhance coordination and share best practices in asset recovery and financial investigations. The establishment of direct communication channels between their ministries has accelerated cooperation significantly.

Minister van Oosten valued the UAE as a reliable partner in fighting organised crime globally. He noted that around 10 extraditions were completed successfully in 2025 alone, highlighting operational trust between both sides. This trust is essential for effective collaboration against shared threats.

Enhancing Communication Channels

The ministers emphasised direct coordination's role in achieving success, agreeing to continue information exchange and expand digital systems for efficient judicial correspondence. They welcomed regular technical consultations and contributions from the Dutch Liaison Prosecutor based in Abu Dhabi.

Both sides expressed their intention to promote expertise exchange, training, and capacity building between their judicial institutions. Ongoing cooperation with Eurojust further strengthens practical coordination between their ministries, enhancing overall effectiveness.

Commitment to Future Collaboration

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of their determination to build on progress achieved so far. Both ministers agreed on strengthening legal instruments necessary for combating cross-border crime while upholding justice and security for both nations. They planned to hold their next meeting in Abu Dhabi.

With inputs from WAM