India secures FATF Vice President post

In a significant diplomatic achievement, senior Indian bureaucrat Vivek Aggarwal has been elected Vice President of the Financial Action Task Force, marking the first time an Indian official will hold one of the top leadership positions in the global financial watchdog. The election occurred during the FATF plenary in Paris from June 17 to 19, with Aggarwal's one-year term set to begin in July 2026.

Aggarwal, currently serving as Secretary in India's Ministry of Culture, was selected by the FATF Plenary and will succeed Giles Thomson of the United Kingdom. The appointment is widely seen as recognition of India's growing influence and credibility within the international framework for combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

In a statement, Aggarwal said the appointment recognizes India's collective effort and the strength of its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing framework. He expressed honor at the selection and a commitment to working with the FATF Global Network to keep the international financial system safe and resilient.

Aggarwal brings extensive relevant experience to the role. He previously headed India's delegation to the FATF and served as...