The EU states have rejected the inclusion of Saudi Arabia and four US territories in a blacklist against money laundering and terrorist financing. EU officials said the ambassadors of the 28 member states unanimously voted against the EU Commission’s plans in an official vote today.
Thus, the entire list is rejected and must be created according to new criteria. To enter into force, the decision must be confirmed by a decision of the Council of Ministers. But this is considered a formality and tomorrow, according to diplomats on the sidelines of the meeting of EU interior ministers is to take place without further discussion.
Protests from Riyadh and Washington
This was preceded by massive protests from Riyadh and Washington. In mid-February, the European Commission presented its list of 23 states and territories where they see a „high risk“ for money laundering and terrorist financing. In a trial vote, 27 of the 28 EU member states spoke out against the plans last week, and later Belgium was added.
Saudi Arabian King Salman had previously personally intervened with the EU leaders. In a letter he warned that the move could „create difficulties in trade and investment between the Kingdom and the European Union“.
Washington opposed the admission of the US territories of American Samoa, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Guam. The US Ambassador to the EU, Gordon Sondland, confirmed last week that the US government has „made a number of efforts“ to stop the project.
