San José: HE First Vice President of the Republic of Costa Rica Stephan Brunner Neibig praised the pioneering role of the State of Qatar in promoting the values of integrity and transparency at local, regional, and international levels, commending its outstanding efforts in supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing transparency and combating corruption, which contributes to achieving sustainable development and strengthening international partnerships in this field.

According to Qatar News Agency, His Excellency explained that Qatar’s efforts to combat corruption reflect a positive image globally, especially with the launch of an international award in this field. He pointed out that the United Nations must be a stronger partner in these efforts, adding that it is a mistake to believe that confronting corruption is impossible. “Many people think that there is nothing to do against corruption and we have to fight that idea,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and support for ef
fective initiatives to tackle this phenomenon.

On the bilateral relations between Qatar and Costa Rica, Brunner noted the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of relations between the two countries. He emphasized that the visit of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani represents a turning point in these relations. “We’re very honored that HH the Amir is coming to Costa Rica. We are also trying to have even stronger relationships with Qatar, which I think is a very strong, developed and forward-looking country,” Brunner said.

Brunner expressed his happiness with Costa Rica’s selection to host the eighth edition of the HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award, stressing that this event holds great significance for his country. He explained that they have made tangible progress, as they have risen three ranks in the Latin American Index of Anti-Corruption, adding that they are seriously working to become the leading country in this field in the
region. Costa Rica’s selection to host the award reflects international recognition of their ongoing efforts to promote integrity and combat corruption, he noted.

Concluding his remarks, Brunner pointed out the symbolism of the “hand” in the award, saying, “The hand symbolizes the clean hand, the hand that will shave over corruption and crush it.”