A/70/PV.110 General Assembly

As announced in my letter circulated to Member States this morning, we shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/70/L.55. I give the floor to the representative of Israel, who wishes to speak in explanation of vote before the voting.

First, I would like to thank you, Sir, your dedicated staff and the co-facilitators, and express our appreciation for the hard work invested in draft resolution A/70/L.55. While we were consulting and discussing the draft resolution in New York, in my country, Israel, there have been three horrendous terror attacks in the past two days. In one of them, a terrorist stabbed to death a 13-year-old girl while she was sleeping in her bed. In an another attack this morning, a father of 10 was shot to death in front of his family. While we are discussing national and political strategies in the halls of the United Nations, in real life citizens in my country are brutally killed day after day. Let me therefore assure you, Sir, that we take this matter very seriously and attach great importance to it. Israel understands the enormous efforts that have been invested in this process and in our negotiations with regard to the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy over the past few weeks. We participated in all discussions and understand and are well aware of the extremely difficult negotiations that went on. Indeed, much is at stake for each and every delegation here. Each delegation has its own priorities, and during the past few days we have moved from one country’s red- line priority to another’s. In fact, as a result of all the red lines respected, the proposed package text is now significantly and extremely watered down. Many of the crucial issues that we needed and desired to address in the draft resolution were left on the cutting floor and omitted from the package text. In an effort to receive everyone’s agreement, language that was controversial was removed. It seems that all of the Member States’ red lines were respected, except for one — the red line of my delegation. My delegation, together with a significant number of others, was very clear from the very beginning that we must not single out one specific situation. If we all intend to keep a general and generic draft resolution, then this has to be applied across all of its paragraphs and all of its parts. We cannot allow this to be the general rule yet that solely in one case it will not be respected. The attempts to single out my delegation were as clear and blunt as I have ever witnessed in the Hall. From the very beginning of and throughout the negotiations, there was a clear refusal to cooperate or negotiate on the part of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, in blunt contradiction to the spirit of the Organization, with the single intention of achieving nothing but narrow political purposes that serve to delegitimize my country. I would like to reiterate again that Israel cares very much about the draft resolution. Having stood at the forefront of terror on a daily basis for over 68 years, we know what terror is and how important it is to counter it. I am aware that for many in the Hall, it has become normal for a certain group of countries to constantly insist on attacking my country at every opportunity, regardless of the issue or its importance. Too many of us have become so accustomed to the demand to satisfy every whim of one observer that, instead of putting the blame on those who pollute every discussion and every draft resolution with demands for language that should be dealt with in other forums, some choose instead to blame Israel for not allowing itself to be singled out. Let me be clear. The Palestinian-Israeli conflict is dealt with at the United Nations in many forums. A few hours ago, the Quartet came out with its report (S/2016,595, annex). Yesterday, a discussion on the issue was held in the Security Council and another is planned in two weeks’ time. The issue at hand, therefore, is not a country’s sympathy for the Palestinian people or one’s view on how to reach a peaceful resolution to the conflict that we all desperately aspire to, but the insistence by a certain group to make every meeting, every negotiation and every event into a mini-meeting of the Security Council and an anti-Israel matter. Unfortunately, there are many conflicts around the world that need to be resolved, but only on one conflict does a group of countries insist on constantly obstructing discussion, contaminating dialogue and wasting the valuable time of all of us. Much is at stake for each and every delegation here, including mine, and for the international community as a whole. For Israel, countering terror is all too real and a daily reality, and we are unfortunately too familiar with it and its related phenomena. Israel fights and counters terror shoulder to shoulder with many of the States in this Hall and assists in many regions throughout the world with trainings and the sharing of expertise. We attach great importance to this topic, and Israel will continue to be an integral part of the counter-terror efforts at the United Nations. We will continue to work closely with our partners in this Hall. Out of respect for the issue at hand, for the facilitators’ work, for our many colleagues who have worked so hard and for the efforts of the President of the General Assembly and his staff, we have decided not to call for a recorded vote. However, Israel would like to disassociate itself from the thirty-third preambular paragraph of the draft resolution, which states, “Reaffirming Member States’ determination to continue to do all they can to resolve conflict, end foreign occupation, confront oppression, eradicate poverty, promote sustained economic growth, sustainable development, global prosperity, good governance, human rights for all and the rule of law, improve intercultural understanding and ensure respect for all religions, religious values, beliefs and cultures”.

We have heard the last speaker in explanation of position before action is taken on draft resolution A/70/L.55. The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/70/L.55, entitled “The United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy Review”. May I take it that the Assembly decides to adopt it?

I now give the floor to the representative of Pakistan, who wishes to speak in explanation of position on the resolution just adopted.

My country, Pakistan, has made huge sacrifices in the fight against terrorism — sacrifices that must be valued by fully committing ourselves to defeating this scourge. This commitment has been reflected in the constructive spirit with which my delegation engaged in the review process. It is also the reason why we joined the consensus on resolution 70/291. For us, it was important to send a strong and united message against the scourge of terrorism on the tenth anniversary of the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy. Despite differences of view, we have been able to reinforce our collective commitment to addressing the conditions conducive to terrorism and all drivers of violent extremism in a balanced manner. For us, this approach rests on promoting a culture of peace at all levels, as reflected in the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, adopted consensually by Member States at the fifty-third session of the General Assembly. This consensus included, inter alia, resolution of conflicts, the full realization of the right to self-determination enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, the elimination all forms of discrimination, including xenophobia, and discouraging and deterring unilateral measures that violate the United Nations Charter. The linkage to this consensual document and the resolution adopted today will guide our way forward to the preventive approach to terrorism and violent extremism. Also helpful in this regard was the joint determination of Member States, now reflected in resolution 70/291, to address some of the most pervasive root causes of terrorism and violent extremism, including the resolution of conflicts, both protracted and new, ending foreign occupation, confronting oppression, promoting the rule of law and ensuring respect for all religions, religious values, beliefs and cultures. The resolution stresses that when counter- terrorism efforts neglect the rule of law at the national and international levels and violate international law, including the Charter of the United Nations, and fundamental freedoms, they not only betray the values they seek to uphold, but they can also fuel violent extremism. In this regard, the Secretary-General, in his remarks yesterday, also said, “When we fail to uphold the values that unite us, we end up feeding the grievances that can lead to terrorism” (A/70/PV.108, p.8). Pakistan has repeatedly emphasized this aspect in the context of the use of drone strikes that violate the territorial integrity and sovereignty of States, seriously undermining the fundamental rights of innocent victims and further fuelling terrorism and violent extremism. We strongly condemn these unlawful measures and demand their immediate cessation. The continuation of these drone strikes reflects a blatant disregard for our unequivocal and existing commitments on the use of remotely piloted aircraft, as set forth in the resolution on the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. With that in view, Pakistan proposed several paragraphs to strengthen the resolution regarding the legality and humanitarian aspect of the use of drones. We thank the large number of delegations that supported these proposals. It is unfortunate, however, that we were not able to make the desired progress in the resolution adopted. In the spirit of maintaining consensus, my delegation agreed to noting the report of the Special Rapporteur on protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms, while countering terrorism on the use of drones, including its conclusions and recommendations. We believe that this is an important first step towards addressing the legal questions related to the use of drones, the consequent violation of the fundamental rights of victims and lack of respect for the principles of distinction and proportionality in their use. Pakistan welcomes the significant progress made in strengthening most areas of the Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy, including measures against foreign terrorist fighters and the counter-financing of terrorism, strengthening the role of youth, women and civil society, emphasis on education, a robust criminal justice system, preventing access to illegal arms and weapons, countering terrorist narratives and a renewed focus on capacity-building and assistance to Member States upon their request by the United Nations system. We are therefore satisfied that we have been able to preserve these important developments by maintaining consensus on the resolution.

We have heard the only speaker in explanation of position. I would like to congratulate everyone on the adoption of resolution 70/291 and to thank all Member States for their constructive engagement throughout this important process. Of course, I would also like to congratulate the Permanent Representative of Argentina, His Excellency Mr. Martín Garcia Moritán, and the Permanent Representative of Iceland, His Excellency Mr. Einar Gunnarsson, for their commitment and leadership during the negotiations. Today’s message by the General Assembly is indeed a strong indication of our collective commitment to enhancing cooperation to prevent and combat terrorism. Today, we have a sent a message to the world that the pain, suffering and destruction being caused by terrorism is not just a major concern for all of us, but a matter that we are addressing as a matter of priority. We shall now continue with the remaining speakers on the list for this agenda item.

It is an honour to speak on behalf of the members of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). In order to respect the time limit allotted to us, we will deliver a condensed version of our statement, and make the full and final version available to all present. Let me start by thanking Their Excellencies Ambassador Einar Gunnarsson, Permanent Representative of Iceland, and Ambassador Martin Garcia Moritán, Permanent Representative of Argentina, and their teams for the dedication and skill with which they led the fifth review process. The adoption of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy by the General Assembly in 2006 marked a significant advance in the fight against terrorism because Member States recognized the concerns expressed by the Secretary-General in the Plan of Action outlining his approach to the fight against global terrorism beyond policing and security aspects. Ten years later, CELAC reaffirms its commitment to the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy as the most effective way to end the threat of terrorism while ensuring full respect for the rule of law and respect for human rights. The terrible attacks perpetrated in Turkey this week make it even more important to recommit to the Strategy and its full and effective implementation. In that regard, CELAC takes note of the report of the Secretary-General (A/70/826) on the activities of the United Nations system in implementing the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. CELAC shares the concern expressed by the Secretary-General in his report with regard to the spread of violent extremism, and accordingly recognizes the need to pay greater attention to the issue of terrorist groups using social media to communicate. The Community of Latin American and Caribbean States acknowledges the important role played by civil society in the fight against terrorism and the need to fully respect the rights of freedom of expression and association. In that regard, we encourage Member States to prevent the abuse by and for terrorists of non-governmental, not- for-profit and charitable organizations. The Community of Latin American and Caribbean States emphasizes that only those measures taken in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other relevant international norms can be successful and enjoy the broad support of the international community. In that respect, CELAC recalls resolution 70/148 on the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism, adopted by consensus on 17 December 2015. Our community vigorously rejects the use of information and communication technologies in violation of international law and directed against any Member State, and stresses the importance of ensuring that the use of such technologies be fully compatible with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law, in particular with regard to sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, the right to privacy and the internationally recognized norms pertaining to peaceful coexistence among States. In the context of the fight against global terrorism, the countries of CELAC reiterate their commitment to intensifying international efforts aimed at safeguarding cyberspace and promoting its exclusive use for peaceful purposes. On a similar note, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States also rejects the unilateral establishment of blacklists of States that allegedly support and sponsor terrorism. Regarding the establishment of the sanctions regime against Al-Qaida and Da’esh by the Security Council as a means of fighting terrorism, our countries recognize the measures taken by the Security Council Committee pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999), 1989 (2011) and 2253 (2015) concerning Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Da’esh), Al-Qaida and associated individuals, groups, undertakings and entities, which is aimed at achieving more effective, inclusive and participatory working methods, and clear and transparent procedures. In that regard, CELAC strongly supports the role of the Ombudsperson, which has significantly improved the fairness and transparency of the exclusion process. CELAC strongly condemns the recruitment and use of children to carry out terrorist attacks, as well as violations and abuses committed by terrorist groups against children, and notes that such violations may constitute war crimes or crimes against humanity. The Community of Latin American and the Caribbean States also stresses that the proliferation of the illicit trafficking in small arms and light weapons, among other phenomena, can also fuel terrorism. CELAC also wishes to acknowledge the important work carried out by regional and subregional organizations in the implementation of the Strategy. In that regard, we urge the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to carry out capacity-building activities in our region and to continue providing technical assistance, upon request, and taking into account the individual needs and national priorities of our countries. In order to improve the international legal counter-terrorism framework, our group of countries is convinced that a comprehensive convention against international terrorism is necessary. CELAC therefore calls on Member States at the seventy-first session to again address the outstanding issues that have impeded the achivement of that essential agreement. Lastly, the members of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States reaffirm their profound solidarity with the victims of terrorist acts and emphasize the need to provide them with all necessary support. CELAC also reiterates the need to prevent impunity for those who commit terrorist acts, with a view to providing justice to the victims and their families. In that regard, we call on Member States to cooperate fully in the fight against terrorism, in accordance with international law.

Allow me to thank you, Sir, for overseeing the process of the fifth review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy with your characteristic patience, good humour and firmness of purpose. I would also like to pay tribute to the Secretary-General for his strong leadership in bringing us to focus on countering violent extremism. It has been my great honour and that of my colleague and friend Ambassador Garcia Moritán to have conducted the facilitation of resolution 70/291 on the review of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy on your behalf, with the added and very important task of discussing and taking into account the Secretary- General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674). I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all delegations for the professional, friendly and constructive manner in which negotiations have been conducted. Allow me to say that those representatives were extremely able and tough in defending their national positions. They gave nothing away for free, except for the very constructive and friendly spirit that allowed us to reach a consensus. Allow me also to also thank the Secretary-General’s excellent team and the Secretariat for their highly professional and skilful support throughout our work. Vicious terrorist attacks demonstrate with devastating regularity the scale and urgency of our task. From the highly organized mass murder in Istanbul to the recent brutal murder of an Israeli child in her bed, we are faced with a vortex of hatred fuelled by violent extremism and equipped with an arsenal of modern weapons and techniques. Africa and the Middle East bear the brunt of terrorism and its destabilizing and corrosive effects on the lives of millions of individuals and whole communities, but there is virtually no country left untouched. Our citizens all share a common experience as victims or potential victims of terrorism, and it is our common responsibility as Governments and human beings to address these issues together. All our societies potentially harbour individuals who instigate and nurture ideologies that can be turned into a justification for violence and terrorism. We do not have to look far from this Hall to see regular events of mass murder fuelled by a wide variety of warped doctrines. Our challenge is to root out the complex webs of tacit or active support, sympathy and encouragement, which are often hard to identify. The level of sophistication available through new technologies presents us with new challenges and demands of us a united and sophisticated response to terrorism and the drivers of terrorism. The Secretary- General’s report (s/2016/627) on the threat posed by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) paints a frightening picture of the sophistication of ISIL and other similar movements in manipulating young people through the use of visual and social media. The report makes the point that the journey of each individual fighter into terrorist activity involves a unique combination of factors. There is no simple approach to identifying potential terrorists, much less a silver bullet to stop them from being radicalized and recruited in the first place. It is therefore absolutely vital that the United Nations demonstrate a singleness of purpose. Iceland believes that the resolution adopted today is a step towards improving coordination within the United Nations of how we address terrorism and violent extremism. But there will be more work to do, particularly on architecture. We need to be honest about identifying the internal and external drivers of violent extremism and terrorism. This includes ensuring that all measures are in line with international human rights instruments. As has already been highlighted, Sustainable Development Goal 16 has a major role to play in addressing the drivers of terrorism. If we do not do that work, then we will be fighting with one hand tied behind our back.

Spain aligns itself with the statement delivered this morning by the representative of the European Union (see A/70/PV.109). We thank the Ambassadors of Argentina and Iceland and their respective teams for their efforts to reach an acceptable resolution. On the tenth anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, it is important to recall the message conveyed by the Secretary-General yesterday at the beginning of the debate. We must work together with strong determination to defeat terrorism, without interference from specific political agendas. Only in that way will the Global Strategy be a truly effective instrument. Resolution 70/291, adopted today, contains positive elements that have been duly spelled out by the European Union. They include the identification of a phenomenon that has emerged as one of the main threats to international peace and security — foreign terrorist combatants. The General Assembly’s inclusion of some elements of Security Council resolution 1267 (1999) is a positive development, as are the paragraphs devoted to highlighting the essential role of women in the fight against terrorism and the role of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and especially those that address law enforcement and criminal justice. Only through the law in its entirety, with full respect for the rule of law and human rights, can we defeat terrorism without sacrificing the fundamental values of our societies. We commend the mention of the threat to peace and security posed by the acquisition by terrorists of weapons of mass destruction and the use of improvised explosive devices. However, we would have appreciated an explicit reference to the role played by the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1540 (2004) in that regard. I wish to highlight what in our view will constitute one of the key elements of the resolution — the recommendation that the Secretary-General begin the implementation of his Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674). We must make full use of this mandate to leverage all of the tools of the United Nations and its Member States in order to implement the recommendations contained in the Plan of Action, which will be very effective in eliminating terrorism even before it manifests. Nevertheless, we must point out certain deficiencies in the resolution. We believe that we have missed a good opportunity to strengthen the United Nations counter- terrorism architecture. The appointment of a high-level coordinator for the prevention of violent extremism would have strengthened the Organization’s capacity in that regard. We also regret that the General Assembly did not further contemplate the role that victims can and, indeed, do play in preventing and countering violent extremism, putting an end to the cycle of hatred and strengthening the role of rule of law institutions. In conclusion, I reiterate that the resolution enhances our opportunities to implement the Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism. We will need the resolute action of all for it to be truly effective.

Mexico would like to convey its heartfelt condolences to the Republic of Turkey for the criminal attacks that occurred in Istanbul a few days ago. We recognize the commitment and work of the Permanent Representatives of Argentina and Iceland and their respective teams in facilitating the consultative process leading up to the fifth review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Mexico deems it critical to coordinate a more efficient and comprehensive response to terrorism, always through dialogue. The tragic events of this week remind us of the urgent need for the United Nations to address this scourge effectively, and they highlight the critical importance of this debate. Over the years, the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy has become a reference point for coordinating the international community’s cooperative effort to prevent and combat the threat of international terrorism. As Member States, we have benefited from the Strategy, which has allowed us, inter alia, to build and create capacity and to share best practices. However, after four biannual review processes, we also recognize the need to fully implement the Strategy’s four pillars, which have not been given due attention — owing not to intentional omission, but rather to the need to address immediate priorities. We have recently seen terrorist groups evolve and adapt in response to our efforts to put an end to their activities. Their operational characteristics and recruitment, communication and financing methodologies have spread their extremist ideologies among certain groups, particularly among young people, which has led to more violence and intolerance. Consequently, and aware of the urgent need to understand and address those new phenomena, Mexico reiterates its support for the Strategy’s focus on prevention. The creation, promotion and enhancement of non-coercive means that effectively prevent individuals or groups from mobilizing towards the commission of terrorist acts require us to also address the political, social and economic grievances these groups use to justify their actions. On the seventieth anniversary of the United Nations, the Member States are building a new paradigm for peace through development. The concept of “sustaining peace”, adopted both by the General Assembly and the Security Council, is a landmark in defining how we will tackle security challenges in our communities. A society with a healthy and inclusive social fabric and where the rule of law and human rights prevail will be less prone to outbreaks of violent extremism conducive to terrorism. Mexico once again welcomes the presentation of the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674), insofar as it illustrates the connection between the development, security and human-rights agendas. We must give priority to strengthening and complementing these agendas by promoting tolerance, respect for cultural, social and religious diversity, and above all, the inclusion of the most vulnerable groups in our societies — women and young people — in order for them to become active agents in building the society in which they want to live. However, as we have said before, we must avoid conflating the concepts of violent extremism and terrorism, as doing so may result in an overly broad interpretation of counter-terrorism measures and potentially against actions that could not be described as terrorist acts under any circumstances. In Mexico, we have favoured a preventive approach by combating extreme poverty and by promoting education, universal access to health services, social inclusion, tolerance, gender equality, sustainable development and measures to prevent violence. Those social development efforts are in addition to those that my country’s high-level specialized committee on international disarmament, terrorism and security is making to strengthen our domestic legislation and comply with Mexico’s international obligations in that area. The committee serves to ensure that coordinated measures are taken to prevent and respond to acts of terrorism within the national territory, while respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms. Ten years on, the international community is facing an unprecedented challenge. There is obviously an urgent need for the United Nations to come up with effective and comprehensive short-, medium- and long-term responses to the threat of terrorism that also prevent messages of hatred and discrimination from encouraging expressions of violent extremism that lead to terrorism. We take the opportunity afforded by this review process to reiterate that efforts to prevent and combat terrorism must always be multilateral and that they must respect human rights, without stigmatizing any population group. Otherwise, our societies will be involved in xenophobic confrontations. Racism, discrimination and stigmatization of social groups foster terrorism. Finally, it is imperative that we adopt a convention against terrorism once and for all. The reality of our times does not allow us the luxury of continuing to postpone the matter. My delegation hopes that the General Assembly and the United Nations as a whole will be up to the task of confronting this scourge and that we will effectively implement the resolution that we have adopted here today.

Cuba strongly supports the collective efforts of the United Nations in its fight against terrorism. The United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy constitutes a milestone in the international fight against this scourge. The Strategy respects the central role of the General Assembly in that endeavour. We would like to express our appreciation for the efforts made by the Permanent Representatives of Argentina and Iceland and their respective teams in coordinating the process we have concluded. We also thank all delegations that demonstrated the political will to move forward towards our common goal. Cuba reiterates its unwavering determination to combat terrorism, as well as its deepest rejection and condemnation of all acts, methods and practices of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations by whomever, against whomsoever and wherever they are committed, regardless of their motivation, including those in which States are directly or indirectly involved. The international community must not accept that, under the banner of the supposed fight against terrorism, any State may commit acts of aggression, interfere in the internal affairs of other States, commit or allow flagrant violations of human rights and humanitarian law, such as torture, kidnapping, illegal detention, disappearance or extrajudicial execution. Cuba rejects double standards and unilateral actions contrary to the Charter of the United Nations and the principles and norms of international law. Wherever legal and ethical principles are violated, extremist ideologies find fertile soil and the legitimacy of our fight against international terrorism is undermined. Hatred, revenge and terror have no place in the just and equitable international order that we are fighting to establish. Resolution 70/291 includes advances in the area of international cooperation against terrorism. Matters of particular importance are addressed, such as neutralizing the abuse of information and communication technologies in support of terrorism and promoting the constructive use of those technologies in line with international law, respect for privacy, ensuring that the use of remotely piloted aircraft fully complies with international law, and the rejection of any practices inconsistent with international law under the pretext of combating terrorism. The resolution highlights the dialogue and understanding among cultures and civilizations and gives priority to the prevention of this scourge. Certain States’ harmful practice of financing and promoting messages of intolerance and hatred of other peoples, cultures and political systems through the Internet, radio or television, in clear violation of the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, deserves our most resolute condemnation. In assessing the progress made during this review, Cuba recognizes that much remains to be done in the fight against terrorism. The international community must take concrete steps towards the adoption of a comprehensive convention on terrorism that defines that scourge in its entirety. It is not acceptable to associate a particular religion, race or ethnicity with terrorism. There is a need to address the causes and conditions that may foster terrorism. Poverty, inequality, poor health, illiteracy, discrimination, desires for hegemony and domination, among many other factors, are core causes of the proliferation of this scourge. The international community’s efforts must also be aimed at tackling the root causes of terrorism. Protecting the victims of terrorism is a priority. States are called upon to fulfil their international obligations without double standards, including the obligation to prosecute and extradite all terrorists, without distinctions of any kind. The Cuban people demands that the impunity enjoyed by the terrorist responsible for the in-flight explosion of a Cubana de Aviación aircraft on 6 October 1976 — resulting in the death of the flight’s 73 passengers — come to an end. Allow me to conclude by emphasizing Cuba’s support for multilateral efforts to strengthen the central role of the General Assembly in the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. The General Assembly and all Member States can count on our full participation in the fight against terrorism.

Global terrorism is by no means a new phenomenon. However, the scope of the threat it poses today, 10 years after the adoption of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, is unprecedented. Hardly a week passes without attacks that carry a significant human cost. Since the last review (see A/68/PV.94 et seq.), the Security Council, the General Assembly and other relevant bodies, including the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum, have taken significant steps. Those steps include suppressing terrorism financing, countering terrorist narratives and addressing the evolving threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters. We are encouraged by the increased recognition of the essential role of women, youth, civil society and local communities in counter- terrorism activities. There have also been positive developments in the effective and transparent use of sanctions. This has been a feature of New Zealand’s work as Chair of the Security Council Committee pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999), 1989 (2011) and 2253 (2015) concerning the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Da’esh), Al-Qaida and associated individuals, groups, undertakings and entities. New Zealand strongly supports the Secretary- General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674). One of his clear messages is that we need to work with youth and communities to effectively address the factors that give rise to violent extremism. Engagement with local communities is a key pillar of New Zealand’s approach. We are acutely aware that marginalized groups and individuals have a greater chance of being reintegrated at the local level than through a top-heavy, Government- imposed approach. We do not accept that terrorism and violent extremism can be overcome by Governments alone. The United Nations has a number of tools at its disposal and is uniquely placed to ensure a coordinated response to this common threat. Going forward, we must continue to assess whether the structures and processes that we have in place are fit for purpose. As the methods employed by terrorist groups continue to evolve, so must the methods of the United Nations. Negotiations on resolution 70/291, adopted this afternoon, have demonstrated once again that terrorism is a highly political issue. We think that this review has been a valuable process, and we recognize that the text of the resolution represents a compromise for many States. Nevertheless, we are heartened that Member States have been able to come together to discuss these issues. The international community must be united in the face of today’s terrorist threat, and New Zealand is committed to playing its part.

I would like to thank the delegations of Argentina and Iceland for their tireless efforts as co-facilitators of the review process. No one envied their challenging task. A decade after the adoption of the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy, few people today could say their lives have gone untouched by the threat posed by terrorism. This tenth anniversary of the adoption of the Strategy and the tragic terrorist attacks occurring around the world today should serve as a reminder of the task at hand and a call to all of us to implement a decisive course of global action on combating terrorism and preventing violent extremism. Preventing and responding to terrorism and violent extremism — and to those that espouse its ideology — are global responsibilities. United Nations conventions and resolutions have set valuable international standards to guide our efforts, including robust and effective sanctions regimes. The Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy is critical to our efforts. I wish to briefly touch upon a few key positive elements of the Strategy, but, in doing so, I underline the priority Australia affords to a balanced implementation of all four pillars of the Strategy. The phenomenon of foreign terrorist fighters is having an impact on many Member States represented in the Hall today, and Australia is not immune. The increased attention in the Strategy resolution to foreign terrorist fighters reflects the gravity of the threat. We need to follow through on the recommendations contained in resolution 70/291 to enhance international cooperation and develop effective measures to counter the threat. Australia continues to advocate for the full implementation of Security Council resolution 2178 (2014) and is working to strengthen the capacity of partners within our region. As we develop our responses to terrorism and violent extremism, we need to work on and look more closely at them from the perspective of women. Globally, women are among the greatest victims of violent extremism and terrorism. Some are themselves becoming radicalized, conspiring or engaging in terrorism and violent extremism. The resolution’s recognition of the important role played by women underscores the critical role of women and women’s groups in bringing peace to their communities. It also recognizes that women suffer disproportionately from the consequences of radicalization, terrorist activities and conflict more broadly. We know that the global terrorist threat cannot be defeated by security solutions alone. We cannot arrest our way out of this problem. That is why it was critical that the resolution explicitly link the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action for Preventing Violent Extremism (A/70/674) with the Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy. Member States recognize that we cannot afford to wait until people have already become radicalized and turned to violence. This recognition is in line with Australia’s approach to countering and preventing violent extremism, intervening early and tackling the cause of the problem while drawing on the strength of local communities and civil society. Well-informed and well-resourced communities and institutions are among our best defence against acts of violent extremism. We encourage Member States to develop national plans of action for preventing violent extremism. Nationally developed plans ensure that national sovereignty is respected, that national drivers of violent extremism are addressed and that national ownership becomes paramount. In conclusion, Australia has been a staunch supporter of United Nations efforts to counter terrorism and prevent violent extremism. The United Nations can be only as effective as its institutional arrangements allow it to be. This tenth anniversary resolution should have provided the opportunity to enhance the architecture in order to enable it to meet the growing needs of Member States. This situation needs to be remedied in the course of the seventieth session of the General Assembly. We will strongly support proposals that facilitate better United Nations system-wide coordination when options are presented in May.

Allow me to express my sincere gratitude to President Lykketoft for convening today’s important debate on the review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. My appreciation also goes to the delegations of Argentina and Iceland for their tremendous efforts in facilitating the review discussion. From the beginning of this year, we have witnessed terrorist attacks all over the world almost every week. This means that the threat of terrorism remains very high, even after the adoption of the Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy. On this occasion, Japan strongly condemns the heinous terrorist attacks that took place at the Ataturk International Airport in Istanbul, Turkey on 28 June. We express our sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the victims and their families. The adoption of resolution 70/291 by consensus today reaffirms the commitment of all States Members of the United Nations to combating terrorism and violent extremism. Japan has been strengthening its counter-terrorism efforts. We have not only introduced an advanced passenger information and passenger name record system, but we have also used biometric tools to secure border control. Moreover, we have been contributing to INTERPOL databases. Japan hosted the Group of Seven (G-7) Summit at the end of May. Together with other leaders, it formulated the G-7 Action Plan on Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism. No one country can fight terrorism alone. Terrorism is a global phenomenon. Foreign terrorist fighters travel to the Middle East and Africa to join the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) or other terrorist groups and return to their countries of origin. Lone-wolf terrorists attack civilians in their home countries, whether or not they are directed to do so by terrorist groups, including ISIL. We have to make collective efforts, both domestically and internationally, to combat terrorism and violent extremism. In that context, I welcome the resolution, which engages civil society, local communities, non-Governmental organizations, women, youth and other stakeholders. Before closing, allow me to touch upon institutional arrangements. We strongly support enhanced cooperation among the relevant entities in order to effectively combat terrorism and prevent violent extremism, including by streamlining existing entities. Today is a landmark day to renew our commitment to counter-terrorism, but this is not the end. Our goal is to implement the resolution. I urge all Member States to take concrete actions on the basis of the Strategy and the review.

At the outset, I would like to convey my condolences to the delegations of Turkey and Cameroon and, through you, Sir, to the families and loved ones of those killed and injured in the terrorist attacks in Istanbul and Yakana, which Peru condemns in the strongest terms. My delegation aligns itself with the statement made earlier by the Permanent Representative of the Dominican Republic on behalf of the States members of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, and thanks their Excellencies Ambassador Einar Gunnarsson, Permanent Representative of Iceland, and Ambassador Martín García Moritán, Permanent Representative of Argentina and their respective teams for the dedicated manner in which they have guided this arduous and delicate process of biennial review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Since 2006, the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy has been a valuable tool against this scourge. Today, which marks its 10 years of existence, as we continue to witness and suffer the painful consequences of terrorist acts, the Strategy is more relevant than ever. It is therefore our responsibility to update it in the face of new challenges and to equip it with new tools to address those challenges. The Strategy must be implemented in a coordinated and comprehensive manner that ensures balance among all its pillars, in accordance with Member States’ obligations under international law, human rights law, refugee law and international humanitarian law. That coherence must be translated into conceptual work and practical implementation at the national, regional and international levels. We also believe it important and necessary to refer to the threat posed by violent extremism, which can lead to terrorism. In that regard, Peru has received with great interest the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674), which addresses the need to mitigate the structural and circumstantial factors that foster the radicalization of individuals. In particular, we attach special importance to the recommendation on reducing inequalities and strengthening the social fabric. It is therefore a matter of preventing the radicalization of individuals and including them in society. In that context, we stress the importance of bringing national development policies into line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1), including Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 16. Strengthening customs and financial intelligence work and increasing cooperation are critical to combating terrorism financing mechanisms, which are often created by other criminal activities, such as trafficking in drugs, weapons, natural resources and cultural material, among others. In that regard, we must prevent and combat any links between terrorism and transnational organized crime. We must also recall that terrorist groups use or misuse various civil society forums to disseminate and propagate their terrorist ideologies, seeking to recruit new adherents, attract financing and even justify their own actions as well as those taken by their leaders. Therefore, with full respect for the freedom of expression and association, we must prevent terrorist organizations’ abuse of civil society organizations. My delegation recalls the importance of finalizing the process of formulating a draft comprehensive convention on international terrorism, as well as that of discussions on the question of convening a high-level conference under the auspices of the United Nations. In that regard, efforts to conclude a comprehensive convention must be redoubled. I pledge the unwavering support of my delegation and reaffirm Peru’s commitment to combating the threats posed by terrorism and violent extremism.

I thank you, Sir, for giving my delegation the floor and for presiding over the fifth biennial review of the Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy. At the outset, allow me to assure you of my delegation’s support. South Africa would like to thank the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report (A/70/826) and the Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674), both of which provide useful recommendations for Member States to consider in the development of their national plans of action. As previous speakers have already mentioned, this event marks the 10-year anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, which provides Member States with a credible, holistic and flexible mechanism to counter terrorism. Attacks on the African continent and across the globe, most recently in Turkey, have shown that no country is immune from terrorism. We have seen the brutality and hatred espoused by terrorist organizations, which control territory and have access to vast resources, as well as by single-minded, radicalized individuals who, in their belief that they are right, indiscriminately use violent methods to sow fear and discord in communities. Now more than ever, the increasing complexity of the terrorist threat requires new and innovative approaches to addressing that threat and the conditions that give rise to it. The work of the United Nations and its structures in support of the implementation of the Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy by Member States, as well as the Organization’s efforts to find ways of countering these new and emerging threats, underscore its pivotal, leadership role in the international campaign against terrorism. My delegation continues to support a counter-terrorism approach that places the United Nations at the centre of international efforts to find solutions to tackle this threat. The Organization retains a vital role in the exchange of information, experiences and best practices. Moreover, my delegation also supports initiatives that will improve coordination and cooperation among United Nations counter-terrorism entities and between the United Nations and regional structures. However, we are of the view that the establishment of any new mechanism should be weighed on the basis of its potential to contribute to facilitating and assisting international efforts to counter terrorism, instead of duplicating work already being done in other structures. South Africa prefers the adoption of a consensus resolution because we believe that it will ensure a holistic and multifaceted approach to countering the scourge of terrorism. It will also address emerging threats and challenges within the framework of human rights and the rule of law. We are firm in our belief that terrorism cannot be defeated militarily and cannot be dealt with solely through the use of force or coercive measures. To counter the narratives and ideologies of terrorism in the medium to long terms, international cooperation must also address the factors that give rise to terrorism. There is an urgent need to understand and address the conditions and contexts that make terrorism an attractive option to the disaffected. There is also a continued need for the global community to address long-standing conflicts in accordance with international law and international human rights law. Unresolved, those conflicts could become the incubators of terrorism. However, terrorism should not be equated with the legitimate struggles of national liberation movements for self-determination and statehood, as provided for in numerous resolutions of the Assembly. The struggles for human dignity and equality and the realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms cannot be conflated with terrorism, extremism and violent extremism. In addition, my delegation believes that extremism in itself deserves attention as it may be a precursor to violent extremism and terrorism. It should therefore be addressed on an equal footing and with the same emphasis. The international community should maintain its commitment to its objectives to eradicate poverty and promote sustained economic growth, sustainable development and prosperity for all. Engagement — including through education, eliminating inequalities and working with disadvantaged groups of society, particularly young people, and developing appropriate strategies at the national, regional and international levels — remains critical. That has informed both South Africa’s national counter-terrorism strategy and the counter- terrorism strategy for the Southern African region. The institutionalized cooperation between the African Union Peace and Security Council and the United Nations Security Council presents an ideal opportunity to strengthen cooperation in countering terrorism, based on the specific requirements of the continent. In conclusion, terrorism cannot and should not be associated with any religion, nationality or civilization. We therefore welcome and support initiatives and efforts that promote dialogue, tolerance, diversity and understanding among peoples, cultures and religions. Acts of mobilization directed against individuals, communities or nations simply because of their faith, language or race cannot be justified. I would like to reiterate my delegation’s commitment to continuing to work within the United Nations and other multilateral structures to seek ways of countering the threat posed to international peace and security by terrorist acts effectively and efficiently.

At the outset, I would like to thank Mr. Einar Gunnarsson, Permanent Representative of Iceland, and Mr. Martín Garcia Moritán, Permanent Representative of Argentina, and their team for their efforts to facilitate the review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. This year’s review has been conducted in circumstances that differ from those of any previous years. We have recently seen terrorism continue to renew its financial and operational tools. Since the range of countries where terrorists acts have been perpetrated has greatly increased, the international community, especially the United Nations, must address that mounting danger in a different manner. We must consider the root causes of terrorism and stand against all terrorist groups without differentiation and with due respect for international law. While the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy review considers violent extremism, many people have noted that it has not focused on all the circumstances or root causes that promote it. Many countries have agreed to implement the Secretary- General’s recommendations, but that is not always possible because of a lack of financing. In addition, the Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674) does contains no suggestion as to how we might facilitate the financing of such actions and measures. We have adopted by consensus resolution 70/291, which sends a strong message to terrorist organizations that we are all committed to fighting this scourge. The resolution contains important provisions, including with respect to foreign terrorist fighters, the financing of terrorism and the use of telecommunications for the purposes of terrorism. The resolution also addresses the link between terrorism and criminal organizations, as well as the root causes of terrorism. The resolution takes note of the Security Council’s request to the Counter-Terrorism Committee to prepare a proposal for a comprehensive international framework by April 2017. It also seeks to prevent charity organizations from being used for the purposes of funding terrorism. Paragraph 33 calls on Member States to prevent refugee status from being abused by the perpetrators, organizers or facilitators of terrorist acts. Paragraph 40 recalls that the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism gives States and organizations the discretion to do whatever they deem appropriate in order to implement the measures according to their national strategies and policies. The resolution also calls on States to redouble their efforts to coordinate their actions and measures with the Secretariat. In conclusion, the delegation of the Arab Republic of Egypt reiterates that defeating terrorism requires political will and a comprehensive, holistic approach to the scourge, cooperation among countries and States that have experience in that regard, the implementation of all General Assembly and Security Council resolutions related to the topic, and the devotion of all resources at our disposal to defeat terrorism.

My delegation associates itself with the statement delivered by the representative of the Dominican Republic on behalf of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, and reiterates its firm commitment to United Nations counter-terrorism activities. We welcome the adoption of resolution 70/291, facilitated by Argentina and Iceland, on the occasion of the fifth review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. It sends a message of unity and commitment against that scourge 10 years after the launch of the Strategy. Unfortunately, the recent terrorist attack at the Istanbul airport highlights once again the gravity and urgency of this agenda for the United Nations system. Allow me to offer my condolences to the Government of Turkey and to the families of the victims. Chile endorses the principles and cross-cutting approaches reflected in the text of the resolution, which emphasizes the four pillars of the Global Strategy to strengthen national, regional and global efforts to prevent and combat terrorism, under the Charter of the United Nations. In particular, we reject and condem absolutely terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and support for counter-terrorism efforts to be undertaken with respect for human rights and in accordance with international law and international humanitarian law. We believe that terrorism cannot be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group. In particular, we believe in close international cooperation to improve the capacities of States to implement the Global Strategy. Furthermore, there is a need for the participation of civil society, the private sector and the different sectors of society, such as women, youth and religious leaders, who are indispensable actors to ensure a multidimensional approach to this task. We recognize the need to address terrorism on the basis of the three main pillars of the United Nations: international peace and security, sustainable development and full respect for the human rights of all. Collectively, much remains to be done. In addition to summoning the will to achieve an international convention against terrorism, we must improve our understanding of the factors that contribute to radicalization, and take appropriate preventive measures to stop the recruitment of youth by terrorist groups, as reflected in Security Council resolution 2250 (2015) on youth, peace and security. In that regard, my delegation confirms its endorsement of the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674) and stresses the need to ensure the establishment of synergies between the Plan of Action and the Global Strategy. We are convinced that strengthening intercultural and interfaith dialogue; promoting democratic values, respect for human rights and the dignity of all people without exclusion; education; enhancing diversity and tolerance; and measures aimed at redressing inequalities will promote greater inclusion and cohesion, which are deterrents to terrorism and the violent extremism that leads to terrorism.

At the outset, I would like to offer my most heartfelt condolences to the peoples and the Governments of Turkey, Bangladesh and Afghanistan and to the victims of the recent immoral terrorist attacks, including in Dhaka and Istanbul, and their families. I ask the Almighty to extend his mercy on them. The Sudan associates itself with the statement delivered by the Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (see A/70/PV.109). We commend the efforts of Argentina and Iceland to facilitate the consensus adoption of resolution 70/291 on the fifth review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. They performed their task with a great deal of enthusiasm and professionalism. We also take note of the report of the Secretary-General (A/70/826), on the activities of the United Nations system in implementing the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and the contribution of States to that implementation. The Sudan denounces any and all acts of terrorism, including State terrorism. We also express our commitment to cooperation in the implementation of the Global Strategy. We stress the importance of international and regional cooperation in strengthening the efforts made within the framework of the Strategy to promote its complementarity and universality. We also support the four main pillars of the Strategy. The review was undertaken against the backdrop of the emergence of new forms of terrorism, requiring renewed resolve on our part. As the scourge of terrorism poses the greatest danger to the global family and the international community, our will must be all the stronger. We have to stand even more united and work together to address the underlying causes of terrorism, not just its external manifestations. Foreign occupation, military intervention, the threat of the use of force, unilateral coercive measures and the imposition of unfair sanctions in contravention of international law and the Charter of the United Nations clearly represent a very serious threat to global peace and security and provide fertile ground for the terrorism and extremism that threaten international relations. The international community must therefore unite to put a definitive end to that phenomenon so that peace and stability can prevail throughout the world. The Sudan reiterates the importance of ensuring that terrorism does not become associated with one region, ethnicity or religion. It is an international phenomenon that must be denounced and stopped, regardless of the perpetrator. We need to eliminate resort to stereotypes. The delegation of the Sudan therefore expresses its concern over the emergence of an aggressive attitude against Muslims in several societies and the binding measures taken against them, which only entrench hatred. Let us work together to strengthen dialogue and tolerance among religions, peoples and civilizations and build a humankind based on a common foundation; put an end to xenophobia; create societies that live in peace; respect different religions and cultures; promote development; fight poverty, in particular in Africa; put an end to injustice and the imbalance in levels of development; strengthen the dialogue between the North and the South and strengthen dialogue internationally so as to a create balance in international institutions. All of this is key to combating terrorism and helps in fighting the underlying causes of terrorism. It is impossible to completely eliminate terrorism through military force alone. It must be dealt with comprehensively by addressing its economic, cultural and political manifestations. We in the Sudan reject the unilateral measures used by several countries in denouncing some countries for allegedly protecting and harbouring terrorists. This serves clear political goals and is not helpful in combating terrorism. On the contrary, it aggravates existing tensions and politicizes an area that should instead inspire international solidarity. Therefore, we must denounce terrorism, regardless of where it exists, without associating it with any particular ethnicity, country or faith and we must do so while respecting international law and human rights. The Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674) submitted by the Secretary-General shows that violent extremism does not have a specific interpretation. It cannot be aligned with any religion, region or society. The plan describes the reasons why it has worsened internationally and nationally. At the same time, despite the fact that the Plan is a timely and important initiative that is worthy of respect, it is not balanced. It focuses on violent extremism at the national level while not paying enough attention to international factors. In our opinion, that is one of the most important comments that can be made about this Plan. Also, it does not offer specific proposals as to how resources can be mobilized to support the programmes and activities under the Plan. The Sudan participated in the negotiations that led to the consensus adoption of resolution 70/291 today with a clear spirit. We worked with the delegation of Saudi Arabia to arrive at a consensus among Member States based on our conviction that we need counter terrorism and violent extremism, which have spared no country or society. We want to bring about international peace and security; foster tolerance and dialogue among civilizations and religions; and work together with all of humankind. We held negotiations for several weeks that resulted in a consensus on the resolution. The resolution is a reasonable and balanced package, but it did not meet a number of our national concerns. Nonetheless, we continued making a variety of efforts to ensure that the resolution contained the elements necessary to counter violations of the Charter of the United Nations and international law. The responsibility for the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy falls first and foremost on States. The Plan of Action and the recommendations of the resolution were addressed in a balanced way. They underscore the importance of national frameworks in line with the priorities and specific conditions in each State and also take into account national plans, which can help States assume their address their own individual challenges. Neither the preamble nor the operative part of the resolution clearly state the factors that have an international impact on the situation and lead to the escalation of terrorism and violent extremism. Generally speaking, the resolution encourages dealing with the internal and foreign factors in a balanced way. My delegation would like to reaffirm that the primary responsibility for the implementation of this agreement lies with the States themselves. The resolution also refers to the important role played by the Counter-Terrorism Committee. In that regard, my delegation believes that there is a need to strengthen coordination among the institutions mandated with helping States implement the Strategy by providing them with what they need for its implementation. The proposals and alternatives for coordination through United Nations mechanisms also need to be dealt with so as to help them fight terrorism. In conclusion, we welcome the efforts made by the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre, established within the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force. Its role is to consolidate the capacities of Member States to combat terrorism. We would like to ensure that the Centre can carry out its functions by providing it with the financial needs to implement its programme and activities aimed at providing training and technical assistance to States. We reiterate once again our commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, as well as violent extremism, which leads to terrorism. We will pursue our efforts to implement the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy through coordination and cooperation at the national, regional and subregional levels and to support the role of the General Assembly in monitoring the implementation of this Strategy and its periodic review.

At the outset, allow me to strongly condemn the terrorist attack in the Kingdom of Bahrain, which led to the death of a woman and the injury of three children. We also condemn all acts aimed at terrorizing civilians. I would like to express our condolences to the delegations of Turkey and Jordan with regard to the attacks that both countries have witnessed. The United Arab Emirates aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (see A/70/PV.109) and it welcomes the adoption of resolution 70/291 by consensus. Today, we are discussing a challenge that deeply threatens international peace and security, as terrorism is a global phenomenon that transcends borders, cultures and religions, leaving no State or city in the world safe from its dangers. The multitude of heinous terrorist attacks that have occurred in the recent years have left enormous damage in their wake, including thousands of casualties, an exacerbated migration crisis and irreversible damage and destruction of property and cultural heritage. This situation requires a robust international response to effectively counter terrorism. The review of the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy, which was adopted 10 years ago, provides the international community with an opportunity to assess its achievements in this area and develop mechanisms to stay abreast of new developments in countering terrorism and of new challenges, most notably the spread of extremist ideologies, foreign terrorist fighters and the use of social media and modern technology by terrorist groups to achieve their malicious agenda. Terrorism is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, and tackling it will require us to engage in a multipronged approach that goes beyond military operations alone. We must address terrorism in its early stages, analysing the roots of radicalization and extremism and countering recruitment. The United Arab Emirates has developed a comprehensive and multi-policy strategy to combat terrorism and remains committed to fighting extremism and terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We are also aware of the importance of addressing the conditions that are conducive to the spread of extremism and terrorism. In this context, the United Arab Emirates pursues efforts aimed at preventing extremism before it becomes violent. The United Arab Emirates focuses on the empowerment of its society by encouraging participation in State-building and providing alternatives to the options posed by terrorist groups. For example, the recent appointment of a female Minister of State for Youth to the United Arab Emirates Cabinet is rooted in our faith in young people. In the United Arab Emirates, we are convinced that, by providing our young people with the opportunity to fulfil their aspirations and live up to their potential, we are investing in long-term development and the stability of our nation and beyond. We have also worked to promote the participation of women in all sectors of society and their integration in our efforts to combat extremism and terrorism. Moreover, it is vital to work on the consolidation of moderation, tolerance and pluralism in our societies to prevent extremist groups from exploiting sectarianism and racism to recruit individuals. In this regard, the President of the United Arab Emirates has issued Decree Law No. 2 for the year 2015, which criminalizes all acts associated with the contempt of religion and holy sites and combats all forms of discrimination and rejects hate speech. We have also appointed a female Minister of Tolerance, who is working to spread the values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the country. In addition to supporting moderate religious discourse, the United Arab Emirates has promoted many initiatives, including the Muslim Council of Elders, which aims to address the roots of extremism. Issuing laws and regulations to deter extremism and terrorism is crucial. We have worked in the United Arab Emirates to develop a comprehensive legal framework to address violent extremism. The Government of the United Arab Emirates has enacted the 2014 amendments to the Terrorism Act in order to provide new tools to prosecute terrorists, while at the same time offering the opportunity to rehabilitate those who have rejected terrorism and abandoned its path. The United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy has highlighted the importance of counter- terror financing, and since 2014, the United Arab Emirates has issued large-scale, anti-terrorist financing laws that criminalize all funding of terrorism. The United Arab Emirates has also joined important international conventions on this issue. We need to develop long-term strategies to overcome extremist and terrorist groups and to ensure their intellectual defeat, including through social media, which is being exploited to spread extremism and terrorism. The United Arab Emirates is therefore working to counter online messaging by extremist groups through the Sawab Center, which was launched by the United Arab Emirates in cooperation with the United States of America in March 2015 to fight extremist propaganda and recruitment by raising and strengthening the voices of moderates and opposing extremist ideologies in the region and around the world. States must come together and unite their efforts regionally and internationally to uproot extremist and terrorist threats, including by exchanging best practices and experiences in this field and building international partnerships and coordinating efforts. The United Arab Emirates has willingly supported international efforts in the fight against extremism and terrorism, and has played an active role in the activities of the Working Group of the Global Coalition to Counter Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant and the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum. The United Arab Emirates is honoured to host the Hedayah International Center of Excellence for Countering Violent Extremism, which works to provide support, research, training and assistance to the international community to build capacities and share best practices. In conclusion, I commend the efforts of the United Nations for its significant role in the development of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. In this regard, I thank the co-facilitators from Argentina and Iceland for their tremendous efforts to ensure that the resolution was adopted by consensus. We invite the international community, once again, to redouble its joint efforts to build societies that are safe and free from extremism and terrorism.

I have just come from the Mission of Turkey, where I offered condolences on behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands for the terrible loss of life in the terrorist attack earlier this week in Istanbul. Such attacks can only serve to strengthen our common resolve to counter terrorism. Terrorism is a grave threat to peace, justice and development, and the Kingdom of the Netherlands is a partner in countering that threat. Let me commend the General Assembly for adopting resolution 70/291 on the fifth review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Getting the resolution adopted was not an easy task, and I would like to thank the Permanent Representatives of Argentina and Iceland for their hard work. The Kingdom of the Netherlands aligns itself with the statement delivered by the observer of the European Union (see A/70/PV.109). In my national capacity, I will address three issues: resolution 70/291, implementation and the way ahead On the first element — the important aspects of the resolution  — the resolution contains language that is less ambitious than we had hoped for, but also contains various elements that will enable us to step up our common efforts in the fight against violent extremism and terrorism. Let me highlight some elements. First, as regards the references to foreign terrorist fighters, the call to prevent their travels and to develop and implement strategies for prosecution, rehabilitation and reintegration for those returning, the Kingdom of the Netherlands — as co-Chair of the working groups on foreign terrorist fighters of the Global Counter- Terrorism Forum (GCTF) and the Global Coalition to Counter the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, together with Turkey and Morocco — strongly supports strengthening the role of the United Nations and its Member States in countering the complex threat of foreign terrorist fighters and their return. In our view, women and youth require special attention in that regard. Secondly, we welcome the references in the resolution to the prevention of violent extremism. An effective counter-terrorism strategy requires a balanced approach between preventive and repressive measures and should be in line with human rights obligations. We underline the fact that the resolution recommends that Member States consider the implementation of relevant recommendations of the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674). My second point concerns implementation. When preventing and countering terrorist threats, no community, country, region or international organization can be effective on its own. We all need to work together. We need to share more information, stop more terrorists and secure our homelands. The Kingdom of the Netherlands therefore welcomes the fact that the resolution contains several strong references to the importance of coordination within the United Nations, but also externally with local actors and regional and international organizations. We need to think globally and act locally. As co-Chair, together with the Kingdom of Morocco, of the Global Counter- Terrorism Forum, we are firmly determined to be a partner in that endeavour. The GCTF has become the main forum for discussing meaningful actions to fight terrorism in all its complexity. In recent years, the GCTF has adopted valuable good practices in areas such as foreign terrorist fighters and the prevention of violent extremism. It has mobilized funds to implement existing United Nations resolutions, and has worked with United Nations agencies to build capacity in Member States. In the Strategic Plan of Action for 2016-2018, we have made a commitment to strengthen the GCTF’s relationship with the United Nations and other countries to have more impact. Through the GCTF, we are committed to contributing to analyses, enhancing the implementation of United Nations resolutions, coordinating capacity-building on the ground and working with the United Nations system, its Member States and other stakeholders. The resolution that was adopted today makes us feel empowered in that commitment within the GCTF. My third point concerns the way forward. As I said earlier, getting the resolution adopted was not an easy task. Terrorism strikes real people, parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, friends and children. The fact that the resolution that we discussed today was adopted by consensus is therefore crucial. In our view, it sends a strong signal to violent extremists and terrorists all over the world that, despite our differences, the States Members of the United Nations stand united against violence, intolerance and hatred. Let the spirit of consensus that we are displaying today guide us in implementing the important commitments that we have made. I have pointed out the elements in resolution 70/291 that the Kingdom of the Netherlands finds particularly important. I have underscored the necessity of cooperation at all levels and urged all of us to continue our work in the spirit of consensus. Let me conclude by stressing that the Kingdom of the Netherlands, bilaterally and as co-Chair of the GCTF, stands ready to lead in this by example. We are firmly committed to working even harder and better to implement the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and the resolution we adopted today. The Kingdom of the Netherlands will continue to be a partner for peace, justice and development so that future generations can live in a world free from terrorism.

The General Assembly adopted the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy by consensus 10 years ago, but terrorism activities have increased. The nature of terrorism has become increasingly complex due to its changing manifestations, its geographical origins and the evolution of its tactics. To these elements, we would add the growth in the number of terrorist organizations and in the nationalities of those who carry out terrorist acts. We hope that the fifth review of the Global Strategy will offer an opportunity to reassess the tools at our disposal in order to rise to those new challenges on the basis of the measures that we have adopted, evaluate the situation of countries that are victims of terrorist acts, counter the phenomenon, and to curb the recruitment of marginalized and poverty-stricken, unemployed youth. United Nations efforts to eradicate terrorism will succeed only if we implement the Strategy. We also need to recognize that military efforts alone will not be successful, to understand the root causes of the phenomenon and to address them at the political, economic and social level and with respect for the sovereignty of States, human rights and the principle of non-interference in the domestic affairs of other States. We believe in adopting measures that help States strengthen their institutions for the benefit of balanced local development. Undoubtedly, the settlement of conflicts will help to prevent terrorists from using entire regions as safe havens for their activities. In this context, I reaffirm the need to strengthen regional cooperation, provide technical assistance for capacity- building in those countries that have been subject to terrorist acts, exchange expertise, and take legislative and judicial action to criminalize terrorist acts in order to facilitate the prosecution of perpetrators of such acts. It is important to note that many countries that have endured terrorist acts on their soil, including mine, need assistance in the fight against terrorism. My Government and Parliament would like to receive needed support in fighting such organizations as Ansar al-Sharia, Al-Qaida and Da’esh, all of which are present in many regions of our country. We would also like to request wider international cooperation and assistance so that we can implement Security Council resolution 2178 (2014), on foreign terrorist fighters, with a view to preventing such fighters from joining international terrorist organizations and stopping and punishing the sources of funding for terrorism. There is a close link between terrorism and other kinds of crime. Transnational crimes such as trafficking in arms, drugs and persons, money laundering and the sale of oil are used by terrorists to fund their activities. States need to act bilaterally, multilaterally and regionally in order to have the means to coordinate and exchange information and experience. They also need to implement the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674), which was designed to support of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, given the relationship between violent extremism and terrorism. In addition, we need to help countries implement their own plans for countering violent extremism. This needs to be done by States themselves, in coordination with other States, and with the help of the United Nations. My country, Libya, has endured great suffering as a consequence of terrorism. Da’esh, Al-Qaida and Ansar al-Sharia have sought to take over certain Libyan towns and cities in order to control the oil resources there, or, where they have been unable to do so, to destroy them. These groups bring in terrorists from many other countries and are now threatening the unity and stability of my country. Their actions also threaten neighbouring countries. As a result, the international community must adopt a strong position in order to enable my country, Libya, to discharge its duties to strengthen the rule of law, respect international obligations, restore peace and stability, combat terrorism and ensure that terrorism does not continue to spread. Specifically, the Libyan army, in addition to much-needed technical assistance, also needs weapons and matériel to fight terrorist organizations, secure the national territory and control its borders. Moreover, Libya’s institutions need support, in accordance with the provisions of Security Council resolution 2214 (2015). In conclusion, I reiterate that we condemn and fully reject terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, whatever its justification may be, whatever the identity of the perpetrator. Terrorism is a global phenomenon; it is not associated with any particular race, religion, ethnicity, or society. We further affirm that terrorist acts that are purely criminal must be distinguished from those that are the expression of the struggle of a people for self-determination or to be free of occupation.

Terrorism and violent extremism are among the greatest security challenges of our time. They bring death and suffering to innocent people and destruction and insecurity to entire societies and regions. No country is immune, as Norway unfortunately learned in 2011, when it was struck by right-wing extremism. Since the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy was adopted by consensus in the General Assembly in 2006, the threat landscape has changed dramatically. New terrorist groups have emerged. Violent extremists are finding new ways to carry out their attacks, spread their propaganda, finance their activities and recruit people to their ranks. The international community must adapt to this changing landscape. The United Nations must play a central role in our collective response to terrorism and in preventing violent extremism. Respect for democracy, human rights, the rule of law and freedom of expression are fundamental values that must be upheld if we are to successfully counter radicalization and violent extremism. Norway believes in a balanced implementation of the Global Strategy. The Secretary General’s new Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674) is timely. Norway welcomes and strongly supports the Plan. It gives a much-needed emphasis to pillars I and IV of the Strategy’s Plan of Action. The new Plan focuses on national, regional and United Nations activities as drivers for positive change. It seeks to tackle conditions conducive to terrorism and to ensure respect for human rights and the rule of law. We must pursue both push and pull factors. At the same time, we must ensure that our interventions are specific to preventing violent extremism, rather just relevant to preventing violent extremism. The Plan addresses how we can effectively counter the manipulative messages of violent extremism, by advocating freedom of expression and the values of tolerance, pluralism and understanding. These are all necessary ingredients when building peaceful and inclusive societies. Improved coordination will help strengthen the role of the United Nations and ensure a balanced implementation of the Strategy and an effective response to the Plan Action. This is a matter of urgency, and resolution 70/291, adopted today, gives us a clear time frame for the provision of concrete suggestions to reform the United Nations counter- terrorism architecture. Member States have the primary responsibility for implementing measures to prevent and counter terrorism and violent extremism. Let me highlight some of Norway’s efforts since the last review. In April, the Norwegian Parliament adopted a white paper on global security challenges, addressing terrorism, organized crime, piracy and cybersecurity. The plan provides a framework for Norway’s international efforts to counter terrorism and prevent violent extremism. It also addresses the nexus between those threats, in particular threat-financing and the nexus between terrorism and organized crime, whereby terrorist organizations, often indirectly, benefit from the trafficking of arms, drugs, persons and cultural artefacts, as well as the illicit trade in natural resources, such as oil and charcoal. National action plans on preventing violent extremism are important tools. Norway adopted its first plan of action in 2010. The plan has since been revised. It takes a whole-of-Government approach, with nine ministries involved in its implementation. The current plan is updated regularly to respond to the rapidly changing landscape of threats. This approach ensures legitimacy, credibility and effectiveness. Norway is contributing to all five lines of effort set out by the Global Coalition to Counter the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). ISIL is losing ground in Syria and Iraq, and its recruitment seems to be slowing down. We must increase our focus on the threat that foreign terrorist fighters pose upon returning home or travelling to other areas of instability. Thirty-four foreign terrorist fighters have returned to Norway, of whom 20 have been indicted and 4 have been convicted for terrorism-related crimes. In June 2015, Norway hosted a regional summit on countering violent extremism as part of President Obama’s initiative on countering violent extremism. The Oslo conference paved the way for a new global alliance of women’s organizations working to prevent violent extremism. This alliance will provide an important opportunity for small grass-roots organizations to have their voices heard. Another initiative at the conference was the Youth Against Violent Extremism initiative, which gathered 200 youth workers and young activists from across Europe. Their message was strong and clear — young people’s voices must be heard when Governments are forming new polices and strategies. We welcome the fact that the importance of including women and youth in decision-making processes is underlined in the resolution. The young people at the conference formed a network against violent extremism called YouthCAN. Prime Minister Cameron has taken the initiative to expand the network to Commonwealth countries. Today, YouthCAN has more than 600 members from 85 countries, and more are needed. We asked the members of the YouthCAN network for their views on the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674) and Security Council resolution 2250 (2015) on youth, peace and security. They urged the international community and national Governments to facilitate encounters between local and national Governments and youth activists working on preventing violent extremism, investing in education and training for young people, as well as supporting international youth networks that provide platforms for young people to share knowledge, projects and best practices. Last year, the launch of the Strong Cities network highlighted the important role of local Governments. It is at the local level that the drivers of violent extremism can best be addressed, and local authorities are well placed to take preventive measures. The Strong Cities network enables cities across the world to pool their resources, knowledge and best practices. Two Norwegian cities, Oslo and Kristiansand, are participating in the network, and we hope that other Norwegian cities will join, as well. Violent extremism is both an international security concern and a development issue. Poverty alone is not the sole cause of violent extremism. Nevertheless, real or perceived marginalization, whether economic, social or political, is often an important element in the process of radicalization, resulting in violent extremism. We need to remember that violent extremism is an important driver for many of the world’s current conflicts. These conflicts are obstacles to social and economic development, and sometimes roll back already-achieved progress and growth. That is why sustainable Development Goal 16, on peaceful, just and inclusive societies, is so important. In March, the United Nations Development Programme organized a global conference in Oslo on preventing violent extremism and promoting inclusive development. The conference revealed how development actors can play a significant role. I would like to sincerely thank the co-facilitators, the Permanent Representatives of Iceland and Argentina, and their teams for their tireless efforts and leadership, which led to the adoption by consensus today of resolution 70/291 on important issue. To conclude, we must step up our efforts against terrorism and violent extremism, and urgently implement concrete measures. The Plan of Action is a crucial part of this and the Secretary-General’s ambition to re-energize the United Nations’ prevention agenda. We need a strong United Nations to show global leadership. We need a United Nations that is fit for purpose, better coordinated and has sufficient resources to do its part.

The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela joins in the expressions of solidarity and condolences to the Government and the people of Turkey following the recent terrorist attacks in Istanbul. The serious consequences of those acts lead us to reaffirm our firm commitment to combatting terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, in the belief that this scourge is a threat to international peace and security. We welcome the adoption by consensus of resolution 70/291, marking the tenth anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy on this subject. Furthermore, our delegation wishes to recognize the leadership with which the Ambassadors of Argentina and Iceland and their respective teams led the work of co-facilitating the fifth review of the Strategy and text we have adopted, following complex rounds of negotiation. The Venezuelan delegation aligns itself with the statement made earlier by the representative of the Dominican Republic on behalf of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States. Venezuela reiterates its categorical rejection of terrorist acts, whatever their motivations and wherever and by whomever they are committed, because they are deliberate attacks on international peace and security and constitute flagrant violations of international law. The commitment of my country to the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is reflected at the international and regional levels in its adhesion to numerous treaties and conventions in that area, and nationally in a series of legal instruments that emphasize, inter alia, control, prevention and oversight measures in combating terrorist financing and money- laundering. Venezuela believes that the acts committed by terrorist groups endanger the territorial integrity and political unity of States, contributing to the destabilization of legitimate Governments and undermining their constitutional order with the ultimate aim of overthrowing them. All of that negatively impacts the economic and social development of peoples, including the deliberate destruction of their infrastructure and national institutions. Experience teaches us that terrorist groups feed on despair, injustice, frustration, lack of opportunity and the denial of human rights and fundamental freedoms to promote their criminal and political agenda, based on hatred, intolerance, sectarianism and violent extremism. Poverty, social and economic inequality; political, ethnic and religious intolerance; the imposition of unilateral coercive measures; occupations, foreign interventions and violations of the sovereignty of peoples and nations are also some of the drivers of terrorism. My country believes that the current situation of our brothers and sisters in the Middle East and North Africa is no coincidence. In our view, the military interventions of major Powers in Iraq in 2003 and Libya in 2011 — aimed at overthrowing the Governments of sovereign countries, in violation of the Charter of the United Nations, with the subsequent collapse of State institutions — created the conditions for the emergence of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Al-Qaida, Ansar al-Sharia and others in those regions to implement their strategy of destruction, based on terror and negation of the other. The rapid rise of terrorism is the result, inter alia, of the financial and military support provided to armed and violent non-State actors who were previously exploited as instruments of destabilization before becoming terrorist groups that merged with ISIS, expanding rapidly in those regions. Today we can observe that, as a result of the escalation of conflicts in various regions of the world, terrorism and the phenomenon of foreign terrorist fighters have enjoyed a rapid rise globally. Terrorism, with its criminal methods, seeks to subjugate societies, civilizations, religions and beliefs through practices based on intolerance, violent extremism and sectarianism. Nevertheless, we reaffirm that terrorism should not be associated with any religion, civilization or ethnic group. The most recent terrorist attacks perpetrated in more than a dozen countries and claiming the lives of hundreds of innocent civilians, particularly those committed by ISIS, demonstrate that the entire world is vulnerable to this terrible scourge. This is evidenced by the unprecedented threat posed by the self-styled Islamic State, which has been joined by at least 34 terrorist organizations from different regions of the world — not only the Middle East and North Africa — and compounded by the sordid phenomenon of foreign terrorist fighters. More than 30,000 individuals, including women and young people, from at least 100 countries all over the world have joined these terrorist groups, not to mention the silent threat posed by so- called lone wolves. The relentless violence committed in recent times by terrorist groups and non-State actors — through the recruitment of children, abductions, the destruction of the cultural heritage, slavery and sexual and gender- based violence as a weapon of war, as well as the use of chemical weapons — has had a significant impact on civilians, in particular ethnic and religious minorities and the most vulnerable groups, whose human rights have been systematically and deliberately trampled, in violation of international humanitarian and human rights law. In addition to unleashing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, such actions represent an evident pattern of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, all of which are clearly defined in the Rome Statute. Consequently, those responsible for such acts must be brought to justice. In this crucial fight, we stress the importance of employing a preventive approach; of adopting initiatives aimed at undermining the clear strategy behind these groups and the extremist ideologies that have been promoting violence and intolerance; of addressing the root causes that fuel this heinous phenomenon; and of developing innovative and effective strategies adapted to specific national contexts to counter extremist and terrorist narratives and generate critical thinking within societies, with a view to preventing radicalization, recruitment and the mobilization of resources through the inappropriate use of communication and information technologies. In this regard, we believe that empowering women and young people and strengthening the potential role played by victims of terrorism could be of great benefit. We therefore welcome the balanced reference to these elements in the resolution adopted today. Venezuela reaffirms that an effective struggle against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations does not allow for dichotomies. There is only one terrorism and we must unequivocally prevent, combat and eradicate it, while distinguishing it from the legitimate struggle for self-determination of peoples living under colonial domination. That is why we believe that the role of the General Assembly as the legitimate representative forum of the international community will be decisive in the fight against this unprecedented and significant threat, particularly through the design, implementation and enhancement of strategies to counter the rise of terrorist groups and non-State actors alike. It is time to stress the relevance of our United Nations and revitalize our coordinated efforts in the fight against terrorism. My country is of the view that the fight against that scourge, including its financing and the narratives and ideologies that fuel it, must be waged in the framework of enhanced international cooperation, in accordance with relevant international and regional instruments, including the aims and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the regulations of international law, and with full respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law, keeping in mind that failing to do so would only contribute to radicalization. Today more than ever, it is of vital importance that States wage war against terrorism in earnest through the full rather than selective implementation of the provisions of international instruments and the relevant resolutions of this multilateral forum that prohibit the transfer of arms, including small and light weapons, and the funding, training and hosting of terrorist groups, and through the comprehensive and balanced implementation of the four pillars of the Global Strategy that we have renewed today. Today more than ever, we must redouble our efforts to achieve the political settlement of the conflicts in Syria, Libya, Iraq and Palestine if we indeed wish to combat terrorism in both the short and the long terms. These protracted crises further exacerbate conflicts, serve as a breeding ground for violent extremism, terrorism and transnational organized crime, and facilitate the flow, financing and training of foreign terrorist fighters. Finally, we believe that, today more than ever, the international community must continue working resolutely as one to coordinate the design, implementation and enhancement of strategies, adapted on a case-by-case basis to specific nations, to counter the capacity for action of terrorist groups and non-State actors. In this regard, we believe that the future adoption of a international convention against terrorism would complement the existing body of international legal instruments by formulating a definition that would help garner consensus.

I would like to express our thanks to the President of the General Assembly for convening the fifth review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. I would also like to extend our appreciation to the Secretary-General for his report (A/70/826). The adoption of the Strategy in 2006 has proven to be a groundbreaking achievement. Ten years after its adoption, the terrorist threat has not diminished; it has proliferated ideologically and geographically, and has become less predictable and more atrocious. Turkey, like many others, has been targeted in the past year. The latest attack in Istanbul claimed the lives of 44 innocent people and injured 239. I would like to pay respect to the memories of all the victims of terrorism, including those of the recent terrorist attacks in Afghanistan, Lebanon, Yemen and Somalia. Associating terrorism with one religion or ideology is wrong. Adopting a selective approach is counterproductive. It weakens our collective stance to defeat this scourge. For us, there is no good or bad terrorist. Turkey is simultaneously fighting three different terrorist groups: Da’esh, the Kurdish Workers Party and the Revolutionary People’s Liberation Party. Regarding Da’esh, we will decisively continue to fight that terrorist organization and will give active support to international efforts in this respect. Since the fourth review in 2014, facilitated by Turkey, important new steps have been taken at the United Nations to address the threat of terrorism and violent extremism, such as the adoption of Security Council resolutions 2178 (2014), 2199 (2015) and 2253 (2015), which Turkey co-sponsored, the development of the Foreign Terrorist Fighters Capacity-Building Implementation Plan by the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF), and the publication of the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674). We welcome the efforts of the CTITF to further enhance coordination and coherence and to enhance the capabilities of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre to better address new challenges. Turkey firmly believes that, by virtue of its universal representation and capacity to interlink various aspects in addressing terrorism, the United Nations has a central role to play in combating terrorism. The Global Strategy provides guidance for all. We attach importance to its implementation across its four pillars. We would like to acknowledge the work accomplished on the outcome of the review by the facilitators of resolution 70/291, the Permanent Representatives of Argentina and Iceland, and their experts, as well as all delegations that engaged constructively in this process. There are many provisions of the text that we welcome, yet we wish to register our misgivings regarding some others. We are pleased to note that the need to address the continuing threat of foreign terrorist fighters is duly reflected in the resolution, including with regard to their return and repatriation. We welcome the emphasis on a strong criminal justice response. It is important to send terrorists the clear message that there is no safe haven or immunity from justice, and we have to ensure the implementation of the universal principle of extradite-or-prosecute. We also welcome the growing focus on the need to prevent the financing of terrorism, including by recognizing that terrorist groups may benefit from transnational organized crime. In our joint effort, we must bear in mind that respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law complements and mutually reinforces effective counter-terrorism measures, and is an essential part of a successful counter-terrorism strategy. On the other hand, sustained conflicts provide terrorist groups with an opportunity for recruitment and safe havens. These facts compel us to enhance the coherence and complementarity of our existing counter-terrorism measures by developing new approaches and tools. In that respect, violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations is a growing source of concern for Turkey and needs to be addressed with equal resolve. While rule of law-based security measures remain the fundamental pillar of counter-terrorism efforts, a broader, balanced, holistic and comprehensive approach, involving whole-of-society and whole-of- Government responses, is needed to make our societies more resilient against extremism. Since there is no one-size-fits-all approach to preventing extremism, tailor-made approaches to local and regional conditions that take into account a complex mix of historical, political, ethnic, cultural, economic and other factors, as well as the capacities, legal systems and needs of States, are essential. The role of civil society, women and youth is also vital in this regard. It is possible to effectively prevent violent extremism only when a genuine cooperative framework at the global level can be established under the guidance of the United Nations. The Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism is an important document in that effort. The United Nations plays a role in leading international efforts in countering terrorism and addressing violent extremism at the global level, and guiding and assisting Member States in their own national efforts to counter terrorism and violent extremism. In that regard, we look forward to further engaging with the Secretary-General in the review of the United Nations system’s capabilities, as called for in the resolution. Before I conclude, let me express our sincere appreciation to all who have displayed solidarity with us with regard to the recent attack in Istanbul. We have also taken note of certain elements of the statement of the representative of the Syrian regime. They are, if nothing else, words of disrespect to the memories of victims and to their family members.

At the outset, I align myself with the statement made by the representative of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (see A/70/PV.109). The United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy is a living document. The tenth anniversary of its adoption is a sobering reminder of the challenges the international community has encountered so far and the ever-new threats that continue to engulf us across our borders. As I speak, a situation is unfolding in our capital, where a number of armed assailants have reportedly taken some local and foreign nationals hostage at a restaurant. Our authorities are trying to resolve the situation through combined law enforcement efforts and to avoid any further bloodshed, to the extent possible. It is still premature to make any comments about the assailants’ real motives. We echo the Secretary-General’s sentiments that a show of our unity of purpose is a sine qua non to defeat the global phenomenon of terrorism and violent extremism. The consensus resolution 70/291 adopted at this fifth review of the Global Strategy has indeed allowed us to pass that test. My delegation joins others in conveying our appreciation to Argentina and Iceland for diligently steering us through the adoption of the resolution. It will stand out as an important record, as the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674) has been recognized as part of the Global Strategy’s broader framework. This should pave the way towards a further balanced implementation of the Strategy across its four pillars. The resolution attempts to strike some balance in identifying the local and external drivers of terrorism and the violent extremism that is conducive to terrorism. This is crucial, since a selective approach to the underlying causes of terrorism and violent extremism may serve political expediency, but it will hardly make the counter-terrorism narrative holistic and credible. The resolution also calls on the Secretary-General to make concrete suggestions concerning the means for enhancing coordination and coherence in United Nations counter-terrorism activities. In that regard, my delegation would like to see pragmatic and decisive suggestions to address the institutional gaps that have been noted. We share the Secretary-General’s concern over the paucity of resources for capacity-building to support the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. This needs to be addressed in right earnest, starting with an analytical report from the Secretary-General on a realistic assessment of the resources required. We appreciate the ongoing work of the Counter- Terrorism Implementation Task Force, the Counter- Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate and other United Nations entities to contribute to Member States’ capacity-building, from which we have benefited in many aspects. We need to map the United Nations system in order to identify the available expertise within various entities, in accordance with their respective mandates. That could help us to avoid duplicating our efforts and allow us to concentrate resources and expertise within one or two specialized entities, thereby ensuring sustainable and predictable capacity-building support. The Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674) would also benefit from mobilizing additional resources that could be complemented by public-private funding mechanisms, such as the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund. In Bangladesh, our authorities have expressed interest in developing a national action plan on preventing violent extremism within the framework of our national counter-terrorism strategy. Our society’s strides in women’s empowerment have been critical to building resilience to the spread of violent extremism and radicalization at the community level. Our religious leaders have proven to be important allies in disseminating counter-terrorist narratives from the perspective of the holy scriptures. We are counting on a whole-of-society approach to reverse the radicalization trend among certain segments of our youth, including those who are motivated to act on their own or in small splinter groups. We call for the sustained support of our development partners to scale up our investment in inclusive and transformative education and gainful employment opportunities for our young people. On the counter-terrorism front, we are working to further develop our capacities in investigation and prosecution, witness and victim protection, countering online violent extremist narratives, tracking the linkage between the diaspora and terrorist financing, ensuring effective border management, aviation and maritime security, and promulgating a comprehensive national list of controlled dual-use and other materials. The recent establishment of a counter-terrorism and transnational crimes unit, with 600 police personnel, is aimed at further strengthening our law enforcement capacity to contain terrorist acts, cybercrimes, the financing of terrorism and related transnational organized crimes. We recognize the need for the regular orientation of law enforcement agencies, the media and other stakeholders on international human rights and rule-of-law standards in counter-terrorism responses. At the global level, Bangladesh supports carrying forward the work on developing comprehensive counter-terrorism legislation. We reiterate our call for developing a shared understanding among law enforcement and prosecution authorities and the information and communication technologies industry to facilitate an effective legal response to prevent the abuse of the Internet and social media networks, especially when used for terrorist purposes. The Government of Bangladesh, under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, remains committed to a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Resolute actions taken to degrade home-grown terrorist outifts and deny sanctuary to any regional or international terrorist operative have created an existential crisis for those elements. In their desperate measures, they have found patronage from certain political groups that have faced difficulty in advancing their own vested agendas in an environment of democracy, pluralism, diversity and tolerance. That unholy nexus of terrorists and political extremists has been mainly responsible for recent targeted attacks and for making martyrs of intellectuals, religious leaders of different denominations, rights activists and foreign nationals. In turn, the situation has attracted the attention of certain international terrorist networks that are evidently seeking to gain a foothold in the region by making exaggerated claims about their presence and involvement within our territory. In many ways, this unfortunate episode is a reminder of the struggle, during our War of Independence, to create a democratic, secular, non-communal and multicultural nation. Despite the current odds, we continue to draw inspiration from that struggle and remain convinced that we shall triumph over this phase, hopefully in a conclusive manner, as we have done again and again. We seek the international community’s continued support and understanding for our efforts.

First of all, I wish to express our condolences and sympathies to the families and nations of the victims of the latest terrorist attacks. I also wish to thank the two co-facilitators and their teams for their outstanding work and tremendous efforts in negotiating resolution 70/291. The Republic of Serbia aligns itself with the statement delivered earlier today by the observer of the European Union (see A/70/PV.109). I shall therefore make some comments from my national perspective. The growing threats of terrorism and violent extremism are among the greatest perils of the present day. Frequent and, regrettably, visible tragic consequences are evident all over the world. The region of South-East Europe is no exception in that regard. In fighting terrorism, we need increased international coordination and exchanges of experiences. Our meeting today is another step in the right direction. For 10 years now, the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy has been the cornerstone of our joint efforts to eliminate terrorism. Counter- terrorism activities within the United Nations system are of priority importance to Serbia, and my country has invested significant efforts to fully implement all relevant documents of the United Nations, including the Strategy and its principles. The activities and the coordination of measures undertaken in the context of the four pillars of the Strategy are of great importance if we are to achieve the desired results. Addressing the causes and preventive measures, strengthening the capacities of countries and the role of the United Nations, and the promotion of human rights and the rule of law have been at the forefront of Serbia’s efforts to fight terrorism. As a victim of terrorism and violent extremism, Serbia considers a high level of cooperation, including cooperation in prevention activities, to be the best way to fight this scourge effectively. Intensifying national, regional and international efforts in fighting terrorism and extremism and preventing radicalization is therefore of paramount importance. The number of foreign terrorist fighters recruited in the region of the Western Balkans is smaller than in other parts of the world. As a sponsor of Security Council resolution 2178 (2014), my country has made significant efforts to counter the foreign terrorist fighter phenomenon. We have taken preventive measures and measures to ensure social inclusion. While recognizing the specific threat posed by the phenomenon, our relevant Government agencies have given appropriate attention to centres of potential indoctrination and recruitment. Recently, the Secretary-General presented his Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674). In resolution 70/254 of 12 February 2016, the General Assembly welcomed that initiative and announced that new efforts would be taken in that field. My country is well aware of the importance of taking timely action, and its institutions are actively engaged in preventing violent extremism and radicalization, the all-important stepping stones that lead to terrorism. The promotion of good governance, respect for human rights and the rule of law are all instrumental in decreasing the risks of terrorism and creating conditions for its eradication. In that regard, providing young people choices and offering them support can also have a catalytic effect. During its chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in 2015, Serbia launched, in cooperation with the OSCE secretariat, the OSCE United in Countering Violent Extremism initiative. At its meeting in Belgrade on 4 December 2015, the OSCE Ministerial Council adopted the Declaration on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism and Radicalization that Lead to Terrorism and the Declaration on Reinforcing OSCE Efforts to Counter Terrorism in the Wake of Recent Terrorist Attacks. Today perhaps more than ever, we need joint efforts as the United Nations and its Member States continue to face an ever greater threat of terrorism. We need to strengthen our capacities and take comprehensive measures, including prevention, to fight terrorism. Failure or lack of cooperation in that regard is unacceptable.

Let me begin by thanking the President of the General Assembly for convening the fifth review of the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy and the Secretary-General for his report on the implementation of the Strategy (A/70/826). I would also like to commend the Permanent Representatives of Argentina and Iceland and their respective teams for co-facilitating the consultations on resolution 70/291, on the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Indonesia associates itself with the statement delivered by the representative of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (see A/70/PV.109). Since the last review of the Strategy in 2014 (see A/68/PV.94 et seq.), terrorism has continued to present a great challenge to global peace and security. In certain aspects, the challenges are even greater now than they were in 2014. On the issue of foreign terrorist fighters, for example, we have witnessed a growth in the flow of foreign terrorist fighters entering conflict areas in the Middle East. Their presence has complicated efforts to start a political process to end the conflict. Further, foreign terrorist fighters who return to their home countries bring with them skills and experience in planning attacks and pose the risk of spreading terrorist narratives. We have seen frequent attacks by lone terrorists, encouraged, inter alia, by the availability of violent extremist materials on the Internet. There is also a risk of terrorist groups exploiting the flow of refugees and asylum seekers to send their members to other countries. Despite those tremendous challenges, however, the international community remains committed to strengthening efforts to counter terrorism and violent extremism. The meeting that we are having today is a testament to that steadfast commitment. Earlier this year, the Secretary-General introduced his Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674), which is intended to complement the Strategy. Outside the United Nations system, countries and regional organizations have continued working together to build capacities and exchange knowledge and experiences. Indonesia is of the view that the implementation of the Strategy in the coming period should build upon those promising developments and take into account the dynamism of the challenges that we face. Along that line, I wish to underscore the following pertinent points. First, coordination and coherence must remain fundamental to our global cooperation. The United Nations system can assist Member countries in achieving these objectives by reaching out to global and regional organizations or frameworks on counter- terrorism. This process should aim at connecting the different efforts and promoting synergy to ensure greater impacts on the ground. Such a process would also improve networks among different regional organizations or frameworks, and encourage them to share relevant information pertaining to local dynamics and their implications outside the region. Secondly, preventive measures must remain at the forefront of our efforts. Taking into account the complexity of challenges, it is well understood that preventive measures must encompass a wide range of aspects, including preventing the spread of terrorist and violent extremist narratives, the travel of foreign terrorist fighters, terrorist attacks from occurring and terrorist financing, among others. Those daunting tasks demand that States remain ahead of terrorist groups in terms of capacity and information. Preventive measures are also closely related to addressing the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. Poverty, injustice and discrimination are among the conditions that encourage people to embrace violent views. Meanwhile, prolonged conflicts continue to provide safe havens to terrorist groups and become magnets attracting foreign terrorist fighters. Our common endeavours to end conflicts are critical in that particular matter. Third is the strengthening of United Nations roles in building States’ capacity to prevent and combat terrorism. Indonesia welcomes the efforts of the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force and the Counter-Terrorism Centre to push for a more coordinated approach in all United Nations capacity- building activities. Along the same line, we continue to advocate for a more effective monitoring and evaluation system to ensure that United Nations capacity-building activities remain relevant to the needs of each State. Critical in this area is the State’s capacity to devise a national plan that optimizes soft measures to prevent terrorism, such as education, instilling tolerance and dialogue. States must also be able to assemble the different but complementary capacities of relevant stakeholders, including civil society organizations, media, families, women, young people and victims of terrorist attack. The capacity to protect human rights while countering terrorism is also essential because the violation of human rights may be used by terrorists to support their narratives. To conclude, Indonesia wishes to re-emphasize the danger of associating terrorism and violent extremism with a specific religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group. Such practices are incorrect and will only impede all our efforts to establish coordinated approaches.

At the outset, I should like to thank the Secretary-General for his report on the progress of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (A/70/826) and the President of the General Assembly for having convened this fifth review, which I have had the honour to co-facilitate with my colleague and friend, Ambassador Einar Gunnarsson, Permanent Representative of Iceland. On behalf of my country, I also wish to reiterate our deepest condolences to the Government and the people of Turkey with regard to the attack that took place at Istanbul Atatürk Airport this week, and to reaffirm my country’s condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Acts of terrorism not only threaten international peace and security, but also threaten human life and endanger the stability, the consolidation of democracy and socioeconomic development of nations. The actions carried out by Argentina to prevent and eradicate terrorism are based on the full respect for the rule of law, fundamental guarantees, international law, international humanitarian law, international human rights law, international refugee law, and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Terrorism undermines the values ​and principles of States, democracy and freedoms. Accordingly, countering terrorism requires an integrated and multidimensional approach in order to act on the broadest possible levels of cooperation with a view to addressing the threat in all its forms and manifestations. Terrorism cannot be addressed solely through the implementation of measures of defence or security, but must be based on a comprehensive approach, as reflected in the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, starting with the balanced implementation of its four pillars, in full respect for international law, international human rights law, international humanitarian law and refugee law. In the framework of pillar I of the Global Strategy, Argentina attaches great importance to prevention. The critical importance of education in combating discrimination, xenophobia, racism and other forms of intolerance, and in promoting a culture of tolerance, dialogue and diversity can never be overemphasized. In this context, too, the role of the media is essential. Accordingly, we have given our support to the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (A/70/674), whose importance we have recognized in resolution 70/291, which we have just adopted, in the light of its preventive nature, and which seeks to set up a comprehensive framework for fighting the violent extremism that leads to terrorism. I wish to express the firmest commitment of my country with the resolution because it reflects both the values and principles of the United Nations that support Argentina’s position in the fight against terrorism and the new nuances leading to terrorist acts that terrorism and violent extremism have acquired in recent years and especially since its last Strategy review in June 2014. In this regard, we welcome the spirit of the resolution and the actions that it seeks to elicit from Member States, in particular strengthening their performance in multilateral contexts, especially the United Nations, the Secretariat, the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF), the Security Council, the Counter- Terrorism Committee and its Executive Directorate, as well as specialized organizations and regional and subregional organizations. Argentina considers that these are the most appropriate forums for coordinating the necessary collaboration and cooperation among States for the prevention and eradication of terrorism. Internet use by terrorist groups and the phenomenon of foreign terrorist fighters are two other aspects that the resolution addresses as a priority and which Argentina considers to have gained importance in the field of preventing and fighting terrorism, and which can only be dealt with through sustained cooperation that allows for the sharing of experience and best practices at the international level. In this regard, I wish to emphasize the importance for preventing radicalization and resulting violent extremism of the use by terrorist groups of new information and communications technology, particularly the Internet, to communicate their message through a seductive narrative oriented towards vulnerable groups that are fertile ground for extremist ideologies, thereby opening the way for recruitment. While the threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters seems to be neither certain nor imminent, both at the Argentine and regional levels, we cannot help but pay due attention to the phenomenon today. Our country is aware of the dual track in which radicalization leading to violent extremism can be played out in the case of already-radicalized fighters who in turn use the opportunity of returning to their home countries or going to other countries to spread extremist ideologies which contribute to new recruitments. Terrorist networks forged against the backdrop of violent extremism could pose a serious threat for decades to come. Argentina believes that the most efficient way to combat this phenomenon is to maximize international cooperation to find mechanisms for exchanging information on the movements of potential foreign terrorist fighters. I wish to emphasize the fundamental role that the United Nations, the Global Strategy and its biannual reviews play in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, due to their holistic and cross-cutting approach at national, regional or international levels, which supports the Strategy and enables preventing and combating these threats through a common front. In conclusion, we appreciate the high responsibility assigned to my country, together with Iceland, to co-facilitate the fifth biennial Review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the Strategy. Throughout the process we have tried to maintain an open, transparent and inclusive approach, in order to reach a solid final result that renews the Organization’s consensus in its counter-terrorist activities. I think I can say with satisfaction that we have achieved that goal. I therefore wish to reiterate, on behalf of the facilitators and our teams, our deep and sincere gratitude to the delegations of all Member States for the constructive spirit and the ongoing collaboration which allowed, despite the difficulties and sensitive nature of the subject, reached a final outcome. I also have a special word of thanks for the Secretariat, particularly the Department for General Assembly and Conference Management and the CTITF, for their constant support of the facilitators. And finally I wish to thank the President of the General Assembly, and especially his team, which permanently offered their effective and tireless support throughout the entire process.

We have heard the last speaker in the debate on this agenda item for this meeting. One representative has asked to exercise the right of reply. I remind him that statements in the exercise of the right of reply are limited to 10 minutes for the first intervention and to five minutes for the second intervention and should be made by delegations from their seats.

I wish to tell the representative of the Syrian Arab Republic that the reality in Syria speaks for itself. The whole world is witnessing what is happening in that country. The representative of Syria said that certain countries finance terrorism, but that remark is just a way for the Syrian Government to draw attention away from what it is doing at home. As for Israel, we have also noticed that that country has been killing Palestinians and that its Government is trying to distract attention from all the killing, the occupation of Palestine, and the fact that Gaza has been turned into a place of death and destruction. All these crimes have been perpetrated by Israel against the Palestinians. In the light of Israel’s State terrorism, none of the statements made by its representative should carry any weight. In terms of our efforts to combat terrorism, it is clear how hard we have been working to that end. Resolution 70/291, which we have adopted today, is the best proof possible of the efforts made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in these endeavours.