Vatican signs anti-tax dodging deal with the United States

Europe Online
June 10, 2015

http://en.europeonline-magazine.eu/vatican-signs-anti-tax-dodging-deal-with-the-united-states_396152.html

Vatican City (dpa) - The Vatican said Wednesday it had signed an anti-tax evasion deal with the United States, agreeing to share information on assets held by US citizens within Vatican walls.

"This agreement [...] underscores the commitment of both parties to promote and ensure ethical behaviour in the financial and economic fields," a joint statement by the Holy See and the US said.

The Vatican‘s official newspaper, L‘Osservatore Romano, said that even though the agreement affects a "relatively limited number of persons," it was of "great importance" as it underscores the Holy See efforts to "promote ethics and integrity in economics and finance."

Starting from 2010, Pope Francis and his predecessor Benedict XVI have passed several reforms to improve book-keeping and financial transparency. Action was taken as the Vatican came under increasing international pressure to improve its record.