FARMINGTON, Nov. 21 -- The Director General of the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), Mr. Edwin W. Harris Jr., on Thursday delivered a sweeping assessment of the region's progress in combating financial crimes, praising member states for significant reforms while urging deeper cooperation and stronger collective action during the opening of the 44th GIABA Plenary in Liberia.

Addressing delegates at the Farmington Hotel, Harris extended gratitude to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, the Government, and people of Liberia for what he described as "gracious hospitality" and exceptional arrangements in hosting one of GIABA's most important annual gatherings.

"Liberia's generosity and strong commitme...