India achieved a major diplomatic and financial milestone on Saturday after securing the Vice Presidency of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for the first time in its history.
The FATF elected Union Culture Secretary Vivek Aggarwal as vice president at the end of its plenary meeting in Paris. The appointment marks a significant achievement for India, which joined the global financial watchdog in 2010. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Finance Ministry confirmed the development.
India Gains Greater Role in Global Financial Oversight
The FATF plays a leading role in setting international standards to combat money laundering, terrorist financing and other financial crimes. India has participated in the organisation for more than a decade. However, this is the first time an Indian official has secured the vice president's position.
The appointment strengthens India's voice in global financial governance and highlights the country's growing influence in international institutions.
MEA Hails the Achievement
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the election as a major success for India. “Major win for India in FATF! Shri Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Government of India, has been elected the Vice President of the Financial Action Task Force,” Jaiswal wrote on X.
Aggarwal will succeed Giles Thomson of the United Kingdom, who has held the position since July 1, 2025.
Who is Vivek Aggarwal?
Vivek Aggarwal is a 1994-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Madhya Pradesh cadre. He previously led India's delegation to the FATF and served as Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). During his career, he has worked extensively on financial intelligence, anti-money laundering measures and counter-terror financing initiatives.
His experience in these areas helped establish his reputation within international financial circles.
Played Key Role in India's FATF Evaluation
Aggarwal served as an Additional Secretary in the Union Finance Ministry when the FATF released India's Mutual Evaluation Report in 2024. The report examined India's efforts to tackle money laundering and terrorist financing.
The FATF praised India's performance and said the country had built an effective anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing framework. The watchdog noted that India's measures were delivering strong results in combating illicit financial activities.
Government Highlights Aggarwal's Expertise
Jaiswal said Aggarwal brings extensive experience and knowledge to the role. He described him as having “profound expertise” due to his leadership of India's FATF delegation and his work in strengthening financial integrity.
The government believes his appointment reflects international confidence in India's efforts to fight financial crimes.
Aggarwal Expresses Gratitude
After his election, Aggarwal called the appointment a recognition of India's collective efforts. He said the achievement reflects the country's strong anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing system.
“I am deeply honoured to serve, and look forward to working with the FATF Global Network to keep the international financial system safe, inclusive and resilient,” he said.
Significant Boost for India
The appointment gives India a greater role in shaping global policies on financial security and transparency. It also underscores international recognition of India's progress in strengthening its financial safeguards and tackling illicit financial flows.
For India, the election marks an important diplomatic success and reinforces its position as a key contributor to global efforts against money laundering and terrorist financing.