Kazakhstan and Switzerland Sign Memorandum on Assistance in Asset Recovery
Kazakhstan’s Prosecutor General Berik Asylov and Vice Director of the Swiss Federal Office of Justice Laurence Fontana Jungo signed an intergovernmental memorandum of understanding to accelerate and simplify the procedures for exchanging evidence and information in criminal cases, including the return of illegally withdrawn assets, at a Nov. 5 meeting in Bern.
Swiss Attorney General Stefan Blättler, during a meeting with Kazakh officials, emphasized the importance of a new memorandum to enhance collaboration against financial crime, according to the Kazakh Prosecutor General's Office. At the meeting, Kazakh Prosecutor General Berik Asylov discussed recent legal reforms led by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, including the adoption of a 2023 law for the recovery of assets illicitly moved abroad. Since 2022, Kazakhstan has successfully reclaimed over $3.5 billion, with these funds allocated to socio-economic initiatives aimed at bolstering public welfare.
Asylov also highlighted legal protections offered to international investors, especially those from Switzerland, to encourage economic ties. Swiss authorities expressed their commitment to assisting Kazakhstan in asset recovery and fostering international cooperation, affirming support for Kazakhstan’s goal to join the European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters. This partnership underscores both nations' dedication to enhancing transparency and accountability in financial practices and broadening economic collaboration.
