A/RES/60/207 Noting the particular concern of developing countries and countries with economies in transition regarding the return of assets of illicit origin derived from corruption to the countries from which they originated, consistent with the principles of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, 4 in particular chapter V, in view of the importance that such assets can have to their sustainable development, Recognizing the concern about the transfer and/or transaction of assets of illicit origin derived from corruption, and stressing the need to address this concern consistent with the principles of chapter V of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, Recognizing also that the illicit acquisition of wealth can be particularly damaging to democratic institutions, national economies and the rule of law, Convinced that a stable and transparent environment for national and international commercial transactions in all countries is essential for the mobilization of investment, finance, technology, skills and other important resources, and recognizing that effective efforts at all levels to prevent and combat corruption in all its forms in all countries are essential elements of an improved national and international business environment, Concerned about the links between corruption in all its forms, including bribery, corruption-related money-laundering and the transfer of assets of illicit origin, and other forms of crime, in particular organized crime and economic crime, Reiterating its concern about the seriousness of problems and threats posed by corruption to the stability and security of societies, undermining the institutions and the values of democracy, ethical values and justice and jeopardizing sustainable development and the rule of law, in particular when an inadequate national and international response leads to impunity, Welcoming the initiatives taken by the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Group of Eight with regard to fighting corruption and improving transparency, including the initiative of the Group of Eight to support with bilateral technical assistance those countries committed to a partnership to increase transparency, good governance and the rule of law, and welcoming also the efforts of those Member States that have entered into “Compacts to Promote Transparency and Combat Corruption” with the Group of Eight, Condemns corruption in all its forms, including bribery, money1. laundering and the transfer of assets of illicit origin; 2. Takes note of the report of the Secretary-General; 5 3. Welcomes the entry into force on 14 December 2005 of the United Nations Convention against Corruption;4 4. Reiterates its invitation to all Member States and competent regional economic integration organizations within the limits of their competence to ratify or accede to and fully implement the United Nations Convention against Corruption as soon as possible; _______________ 4 5 2 Resolution 58/4, annex. A/60/157.