Leaders of the Group of Eight (G8) industrialized nations pledged Thursday to intensify anti-corruption efforts, both at the national and international levels, terming the fight against corruption as "one of the most important tasks of the G8."

"We will intensify their (G8 members) common efforts to effectively combat corruption worldwide," said a summit declaration published on the official website of the annual G8 event.

"We are aware of their leadership role in setting examples in the fight against corruption, and are taking concerted action to live up to their commitments and responsibilities," it said.

In the document, the G8 leaders said they are committed to full implementation of their obligations under existing international agreements created to combat corruption, particularly those of the United Nations and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

Measures agreed by the G8 included supporting the ratification by all countries of the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), coordinating efforts to implement UNCAC and supporting the work of UN Office of Drugs and Crime, Interpol and other international bodies.

They also promised to develop concrete strategies and best practices regarding specific aspects of combating corruption.

"For example, this will include implementing regional G8 workshops on the recovery of illicitly-obtained assets. We will also provide developing countries with enhanced capacity building assistance," said the declaration.

The G8 stressed that it would focus on preventing corruption and raising public awareness, in collaboration with the civil society.

Finally, the group of the world's major economic powers noted the "critical relationship" that exists between providing a stable, transparent, and corruption-free business climate, and the ability to attract much needed foreign direct investment.

Source: Xinhua