S/PV.6900 Security Council

I wish to warmly welcome the Secretary-General and ministers and other high-level representatives of the Security Council members participating in today’s meeting. Their presence is an affirmation of the importance of the subject matter to be addressed today. Under rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representatives of Afghanistan, Armenia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Botswana, Canada, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Egypt, India, Indonesia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Israel, Japan, Kazakhstan, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, the Syrian Arab Republic, Tunisia, Turkey, Uganda and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to participate in this meeting. Under rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite His Excellency Mr. Thomas Mayr- Harting, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations, to participate in this meeting. The Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I wish to draw the attention of Council members to document S/2013/3, which contains the text of a letter dated 1 January 2013 from the Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations addressed to the Secretary-General, transmitting a concept paper on the item under consideration. I hope that this open debate will serve to promote a holistic view of the continuing threats and challenges posed by international terrorism and of the best ways to address that menace collectively through a coherent and comprehensive approach. It is an issue of common concern to the international community at large. It is through solidarity, understanding, cooperation and collective action that we can respond more effectively to the threat. That objective, I am sure, will be reinforced by our discussion today. I now give the floor to the Secretary-General, His Excellency Mr. Ban Ki-moon.

I am pleased to welcome Her Excellency Foreign Minister Khar back to the United Nations. I thank Pakistan for convening this important debate. As this is my first time to address the Council this year, I would like to warmly welcome all the members of the Security Council and to affirm that I count on their leadership. At the same time, I would like to warmly welcome the new members of the Council — the representatives of Argentina, Australia, Luxembourg, the Republic of Korea and Rwanda. In the light of recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan, I want to repeat my heartfelt condolences to the victims and to reiterate the United Nations strong support for, and solidarity with, the Government’s efforts to combat terrorism and defend the country’s institutions and freedoms. Meeting as the New Year begins, we are challenged to look back on what we have accomplished in countering terrorism and to look ahead regarding how to overcome this deadly threat. The past year saw solid progress. In June, the General Assembly recommitted to the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Through a consensus resolution (General Assembly resolution 66/282), the Assembly strengthened our resolve to support victims of terrorism everywhere. It reaffirmed our commitment to a comprehensive approach to terrorism, grounded in respect for human rights and the rule of law. No counter-terrorism policy can be effective without addressing conditions that are conducive to the spread of terrorism. That is the first pillar of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Today, I would like to highlight three aspects of that pillar. The first aspect is the critical links between development and security. Nothing can ever justify terrorism. No grievance, no goal, no cause can excuse terrorist acts. At the same time, we must remove the conditions that feed the problem. Terrorism festers where conflicts are endemic and where human rights, human dignity and human life are not protected and impunity prevails. Second is the importance of dialogue and understanding. We have to drown out shrill appeals to intolerance and extremism with sound calls for compassion and moderation. Third is the increasing use of information technology to spread hatred. Terrorists and extremists are exploiting social media networks to radicalize people. This is yet another arena where we have to replace the terrorist narrative with messages of peace, development and human welfare. Progress in all these areas will demand the steady efforts of States, individually and collectively. I welcome three upcoming international conferences. In April, a new project on human rights training for counter-terrorism law enforcement officials will hold its first conference in Amman. The Counter- Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF) working group on human rights while countering terrorism is organizing that event. In two weeks, Governments will gather in Bogota for the International Conference on National and Regional Counter-Terrorism Strategies, organized by the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre of the CTITF. This summer, the CTITF and the Government of Switzerland will host a conference of counter-terrorism focal points aimed at addressing conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. Attention to the conditions that are conducive to terrorism does not in any way diminish the importance of other counter-terrorism priorities. The financing of terrorism remains a key threat, and States requires capacity-building in response. The Counter-Terrorism Committee’s special meeting on the subject in November 2012, chaired by Ambassador Puri of India, was an important step. In our efforts to eliminate terrorism, I urge humanitarian, security and political actors to engage in an open and sustained policy dialogue to ensure that efforts to prevent acts of terrorism do not ever impede the timely and principled delivery of assistance of a strictly humanitarian nature to civilians. This is all the more important as we cope with increasing humanitarian emergencies around the world. This year, we face challenges in Mali and the broader Sahel region, where terrorism feeds off of extreme destitution and undermines development through violence, intolerance and human rights abuses. I welcome the Security Council’s resolve to tackle the challenges in that region head on. I especially appreciate the Council’s sensitive approach to underlying factors that have led to this dire security situation. There were far too many victims of terrorism over the past year, but none was more compelling in her struggle than Malala Yousafzai, the young Pakistani teen who was shot, along with her schoolmates, by extremists. The Government and people of Pakistan were joined by others around the world in rallying behind Malala and offering their best wishes for her recovery. I was deeply moved by her brave efforts to champion the fundamental right to education — a value enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as in the teachings of Islam. I am proud to count myself among her supporters and well-wishers. Malala and her schoolmates have shown tremendous courage. Their grace and integrity challenge the world to respond to the terrorist threat with the comprehensive and broad-based approach that is essential to success. I count on all members of the Council — and all members of the international community — to unite in advancing this important work.

I thank the Secretary-General for his very comprehensive briefing. I shall now make a statement in my capacity as Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Let me begin by thanking all Council members for supporting Pakistan in putting the theme of “A comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism” on the Council’s agenda for an open debate culminating in the adoption of a presidential statement. In this regard, we are also particularly thankful to the Secretary General for his constant help and guidance. In choosing the theme for this debate, we knew that it was a difficult subject but certainly one that needed the Council’s attention and pronouncement because, as the threat of terrorism continues to evolve, so must our strategies to deal with it. The struggle against this threat is not for today or tomorrow or for the next week or even for a year. It is a long haul. We all have to brace for it. We all have to continue to prepare for it. Pakistan’s initiative for this debate is rooted in our shared objective of attaining global peace, security, stability and development. As a threat to international peace and security, terrorism has a direct bearing on all of our countries and regions, as well as on all individuals and societies. The past decade has shown that terrorism knows no geographical boundaries. In the past decade, one lesson we have all learned is that a lopsided or unidimensional approach will not work as we try to defeat the hydra-headed monster of terrorism. This monster has tentacles all around the world. It is truly a global threat. Our strategies and responses must therefore also be global in nature. The Security Council and the United Nations as a whole have already done an impressive body of work by developing the legal and normative framework for countering terrorism and by creating mechanisms for implementation. So what is it that we all wish to accomplish under this new initiative? After fighting terrorism for the past 10 years, we have the benefit of the hindsight and an unprecedented opportunity to deal both with the symptoms and the causes of terrorism. We all are deeply aware of the unintended consequences of political decisions that can fuel the scourge of terrorism. Short-sighted methods of dealing with terrorism can offer ideological fodder to the causes of terrorists. What we are looking for, therefore, is a comprehensive and interlocking approach that is much more effective than our present effort and that is geared towards winning not only the battles but also the war. We condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, committed by whomever, wherever and for whatever purpose. All acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivations. In the past decade, we have collaborated, as the international community, to impede, impair, isolate and incapacitate the terrorist threat. We must attack and dismantle terrorist networks because they defy the writ of the State and kill innocent civilians, and we must persevere in our efforts to deter and defeat terrorists militarily. And yet our success has been at best only partial. It is conventional wisdom and a compelling reality that terrorism will not be defeated by law enforcement measures, intelligence operations or military and security strategies alone. That is why we need a comprehensive approach. If we are to find sustainable solutions, we need to intensify our efforts to resolve long-festering conflicts and crises that spawn extremism. Terrorists’ misleading, distorted and malicious narrative, and their demented ideology that justifies the killing of innocent people must be quashed by the international community and the Security Council. It is our responsibility to counter terrorists’ propaganda. Our stories about human dignity and values should be louder than their criminal sagas. We must move in concert to decrease the ideological space in which terrorists operate freely. Development and security are interrelated. Development helps to meet basic human needs, build community resilience, and prevent terrorism. Job creation for young people and their participation in socioeconomic development create an enabling environment for the success of counterterrorism policies. Special emphasis needs to be laid on creating opportunities for people in regions scarred by terrorism to be gainfully employed so that terrorists can no longer lure them to their side. We in Pakistan have seen that nothing works better as an effort of the international community in this regard than allowing preferential market access to products produced within the regions wracked by terrorism. An even more important track — perhaps — is dialogue. All those who have chosen the path of terrorism but are willing to renounce violence should be brought back into national and societal mainstreams. Reconciliation must be promoted. Fissures must be bridged. We also have to foster a culture of the promotion of the rule of law, the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms and prevalence of good governance and tolerance. I would just like to add a few more points to emphasize why counter-terrorism needs to be the focus of the Council. First, terrorism continues to mutate every day into newer and different forms. Terrorists use new information and communication technologies and the Internet for recruitment and incitement, as well for planning and financing their activities. Counter- terrorism efforts need to adapt to those challenges and to develop quick-response strategies for real-time response. Secondly, we should address the root causes of terrorism. Deprivation, marginalization, exclusion and stereotyping often create conditions for a drift to terrorism. That drift must be stemmed. Thirdly, our collective and national measures to countering all forms of the financing of terrorism, including through the proceeds of organized crime and illicit narcotics, should be made much more effective than they are today. Fourthly, terrorism and extremism cannot, and should not, be associated with any religion, race, region, value system or society. Attributing the encouragement, incitement or inspiration of terrorist acts to any religious tradition or doctrine is unacceptable. An honest dialogue among different religions and civilizations is therefore a continuing political imperative. Regional and subregional efforts are extremely important in the fight against terrorism. We need regional cooperation to impart education, bolster criminal justice systems, enhance connectivity, secure borders and tighten financial controls.Besides, regional cooperation is necessary to guarantee lasting peace and security. Pakistan and Afghanistan have taken steps towards a strategic partnership to jointly fight terrorism — a multipronged approach to countering terrorism. We are supporting an Afghan-led and Afghan-driven reconciliation process and efforts aimed at creating a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. We believe that peace and stability in Afghanistan will have a direct, salutary impact on Pakistan. Terrorism remains a serious threat to Pakistan. We have been one of the biggest victims of terrorism. We can therefore relate to, feel and share the pain and suffering caused by terrorism anywhere in the world. Pakistan’s comprehensive approach to countering terrorism is based on three d’s, namely, deterrence, development and dialogue. The entire nation, the Government, the Parliament, the judiciary and civil society are determined to fight the scourge of terrorism and extremism. Under the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari, we have pursued a multifaceted policy to deal with the threat of terrorism in a holistic and sustainable manner. Pakistan has led from the front in the international community’s fight against terrorism. Much of the success in the global fight against terrorism has been made possible with Pakistan’s support and active cooperation. However, that success has come with a heavy cost for Pakistan and for Pakistanis; but that has not deterred our resolve. Pakistan’s community resilience has been second to none. The Pakistani armed forces and law enforcement officials have defended Pakistan and the rest of the world against the terrorist threat, at great cost. Some 150,000 troops are currently deployed on the Pakistan- Afghanistan border to detect and degrade those ubiquitous terrorists who are enemies of our people. Seven thousand brave Pakistani soldiers, police and para-military forces and more than 37,000 innocent civilians, including men, women and children, have fallen victim to the blight of terrorism. Thousands more have been injured and disabled. Pakistan’s most popular leader, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, was assassinated by terrorists in 2007. Recently, Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa leader and senior Minister Bashir Bilour, who spoke courageously against terrorism, was killed in a suicide bombing attack. Even the young, innocent teenage girl Malala Yousafzai, whom the Secretary-General referred to, could not escape the bullet of a terrorist. She survived, and we hope that her life will be a testimony to the resilience of the Pakistani people, including Pakistan’s women. Terrorists gain strength from various sources of financing. We should continue to refine measures to prevent and suppress their sources of funding coming from the abuse of charitable non-profit organizations, as well as from the proceeds from organized crime and illicit narcotics. Pakistan recently hosted a successful regional conference on counter-narcotics. We have also launched a thorough public-awareness campaign about the atrocities committed by terrorists. The success of a counter-terrorist offensive cannot be measured only by the defeat of terrorists. After a successful operation in Swat and Malakand, for instance, we first had to absorb and then rehabilitate no fewer than 2.2 million displaced persons, through a massive national effort. We also are focusing on the well-being and appropriate rehabilitation of victims of terrorism. We have invested energy and resources in deradicalization so that misguided youth can be reintegrated into society. We have established one such deradicalization centre at Saboon for that purpose, and we wish to establish many more. The capacity-building needs of partner countries must be addressed with seriousness. The reluctance to share critical equipment and intelligence amounts to weakening those pitted against terrorists. Terrorism undermines global stability and prosperity. It has undermined Pakistan’s stability and economic prospects. That is why we have asked our partners in the international community to enhance our market access for the products on which we have comparative and competitive advantages. We believe in balancing hardcore national strategies with socioeconomic and community-driven plans. The Government of Pakistan is also investing in the development of affected areas, including in education, health, tourism, sports, the construction of roads, dams, canals and hydroelectric projects. The United Nations and its subsidiary bodies have an important role in the implementation of its resolutions, the development of discourse on counter- terrorism and the dissemination of best practices among nation-States. The United Nations should continue to play a visible and effective role in leading counter- terrorism efforts. In that regard, it is critical that we maximize transparency, efficiency, coordination and synergy within the United Nations system. Let me conclude by emphasizing that terrorism threatens us all. Joining forces and strengthening cooperation are key to success at the national and international levels. States need to continue to work more closely in the implementation of their counter- terrorism strategies. Terrorism can be defeated only by comprehensive and collective endeavours on the part of the international community in a cooperative framework. Pakistan will continue to play its role in that collective undertaking. I now resume my functions as President of the Security Council. I shall now give the floor to the members of the Council.

As this is the first time that Luxembourg is taking the floor in a public meeting of the Security Council, allow me, Madam President, to congratulate your country, Pakistan, on its assumption of the presidency of the Council for the month of January 2013. I also thank you for having organized this open debate on the theme of a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism. Today is also the first time in its history that Luxembourg has taken the floor in a public meeting as an elected member of the Security Council. We commit ourselves, in the course of the next two years, to contributing actively to the work of the Security Council in the exercise of the primary responsibility conferred upon it by States Members under the Charter of the United Nations, namely, the maintenance of international peace and security. Terrorism is one of the most serious threats to international peace and security. The Secretary-General aptly illustrated that fact in his presentation, for which I thank him. The threat is spreading, as the example of the Sahel demonstrates. Very recently, unfortunately, Pakistan was again the victim of deadly terrorist attacks. I would like, through you, Madam President, to extend to Pakistan the heartfelt condolences of my country. Luxembourg wishes to express its solidarity with all those who suffer because of terrorism, and to reaffirm the importance of respecting the rights of the victims of terrorism. Luxembourg strongly condemns terrorism. We consider terrorist acts as unjustifiable criminal acts that must be prosecuted and punished regardless of their perpetrators. To counter this scourge, Luxembourg commits itself at the international level, at the European level and at the national level. European efforts will be outlined in the statement to be made by the Head of the Delegation of the European Union, which I wholeheartedly endorse. As for United Nations efforts, it is commendable that the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy has expanded the framework of the fight against global terrorism to include not only repressive and security measures but also measures to ensure respect for human rights and to address the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. That Strategy provides a comprehensive approach allowing for more effective responses to the threat of terrorism, by combining security, the rule of law, development goals and the protection of human rights, as the President just now said. Indeed, in order to prevent terrorism, we must strengthen and make better use of United Nations capacities in areas such as conflict prevention, the primacy of law, peacekeeping and peacebuilding, and development. Security and development are truly complementary. The long-term goal of any strategy in the fight against terrorism is to save lives and safeguard the well-being of the population. Conversely, development can help counter the appeal of terrorism, especially if it promotes youth employment, which is one of the priority areas of Luxembourg’s development cooperation policy. I would like to emphasize that the fight against terrorism must be guided by fundamental democratic values, human rights and good governance. All measures adopted to prevent and fight terrorism must respect the principle of the primacy of law, and they must be taken in accordance with international law, including humanitarian law, human rights law and refugee law. Indeed, experience has shown that serious violations of human rights may create conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. In the same vein, counter-terrorism strategies must pay due attention to the promotion of tolerance, to dialogue and to respect for diversity. UNESCO has a major role to play in that regard, as has the Alliance of Civilizations, which Luxembourg has actively supported since its creation in 2005. Luxembourg fully supports the work of the Committees established pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999) and 1989 (2011), 1373 (2001), and 1540 (2004), which are at the heart of the United Nations response to terrorism. Sanctions are an important tool in the international fight against terrorism. We recall the importance of prompt and effective implementation of applicable sanctions measures. At the same time, the protection of human rights and respect for the primacy of law are of crucial importance if we want to achieve the ultimate goal of preventing and countering acts of terrorism. We welcome the measures adopted by the Security Council in recent years to ensure the application of clear, fair and transparent procedures in the work of the Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee. We extend our full support to the Office of the Ombudsperson, which was established in December 2009 and whose mandate has just recently been renewed for a period of 30 months, until June 2015. It is important to work for steady improvement of procedures within the Council. I would not want to conclude without saying a word about the struggle against the financing of terrorism. As an international financial centre, Luxembourg is conscious of its special responsibilities in the matter. My country has adopted a modern and coherent arsenal of legislative and regulatory measures in the fight against money laundering and the financing of terrorism. Those measures are in line with the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force. Furthermore, Luxembourg is contributing to strengthening the capacity of developing countries to counter the financing of terrorism. For example, we have assisted Senegal by funding a training project developed by its Financial Intelligence Processing Unit, in cooperation with the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate. The draft presidential statement prepared for this open debate is commendable for including all the ingredients of the comprehensive approach to the fight against terrorism that I have just set out. Luxembourg therefore fully endorses it. If together we succeed in translating its words into action I have no doubt that we will make decisive progress in the fight against terrorism. Baroness Warsi (United Kingdom): I would like to begin, Madam President, by congratulating you and the Government of Pakistan on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of January. I am grateful to you for convening this important debate on taking a comprehensive approach to countering terrorism. Allow me also to thank the Secretary- General for his introductory remarks and briefing this morning. Pakistan is on the front line of terrorism and is making enormous sacrifices. Thirty thousand Pakistani civilians have died in terrorist attacks since 9/11. In Britain, we understand the terrible losses terrorism has inflicted on the Pakistani people. We feel them deeply, too. The people of Pakistan will always have our sympathy, our understanding and our steadfast support in addressing those problems and in confronting terrorism. As Prime Minister David Cameron has said, Pakistan’s enemy is our enemy. Terrorism remains one of the most pressing and most challenging of the threats facing our world today. A united international response is the only way by which the scourge of terrorism can be defeated — a comprehensive approach to terrorism. The world has changed since the 9/11 attacks and other terrorist atrocities such as the Bali bombing and the 7/7 attacks in London. Globalization has made the world increasingly interconnected, its boundaries less clearly defined. Those changes have brought many benefits, but they have also brought significant challenges that require a collective global response if we are to overcome them. The same applies without doubt to the terrorist threat we face today. It is more diverse and more fragmented but also more determined than ever to challenge the shared values on which the United Nations was founded. The United Kingdom therefore welcomes the call for a more comprehensive approach to countering terrorism — comprehensive in terms of the number of countries working together to ensure its defeat and comprehensive in terms of the range of tools we deploy in our struggle against it. When a terrorist threat is faced, a military response is sometimes unavoidable. But we must also recognize the link between instability and terrorism and the need to address the grievances and poverty that terrorists seek to exploit, to radicalize and to recruit from. In Yemen, for example, we need to expand access to justice, jobs and basic services in order to address those grievances. And in Somalia the work of our Department for International Development to support police training, to pilot community safety committees and to secure access to health care and humanitarian assistance is playing a crucial role in countering terrorist threats. The United Kingdom is keen to continue its support for the new Government of Somalia in its efforts to secure lasting peace and security in East Africa, building on the success of the London Somalia Conference last year. Therefore, our broader counter-terrorism effort must continue to include work to bring countries out of poverty and to build stability. That requires us to take a truly holistic and comprehensive approach, bringing together diplomatic, development and defence work in countering terrorism. We must not forget that financing is the lifeblood of terrorist networks. Cutting off that financing is core to countering terrorism. We therefore welcome the work of the United Nations and other international bodies, including the Financial Action Task Force, in setting international standards for combating terrorist financing and promoting their effective implementation. Terrorists are also quick to exploit the opportunities presented by technology. In the field of cybersecurity the United Kingdom is playing a key role in shaping an international cyberstrategy, including hosting the 2011 London Conference on Cyberspace. We welcome international initiatives, particularly in the United Nations, aimed at reducing the threat we face from cybercrime. The United Kingdom is also working closely with our international partners to tackle other transnational threats such as drug and human trafficking. In particular, the United Kingdom welcomes and has adopted the United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, which supplements the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime. The United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy emphasizes the importance of conducting counter-terrorism activity in conformity with international law. The United Kingdom strongly endorses that position. Compliance with international human rights obligations is vital to the sustainability of all our counter-terrorism work. We need to ensure that our collective capacity to arrest, prosecute and detain terrorists is in accordance with the human rights standards that United Nations Members have signed up to. The United Kingdom is active also across the globe in providing security and justice assistance to international partners. In doing so, we consider it to be of critical importance that this work be consistent with our values. The United Kingdom has therefore developed specific guidance, the overseas security and justice assistance guidance, to ensure that all of our overseas counter-terrorism activity is in line with our fundamental human rights standards. All proposals for security and justice assistance overseas are now subject to that guidance. The United Nations is uniquely placed to lead and coordinate the universal struggle against terrorism. United Nations resolutions provide the framework for international activity to counter terrorism, and United Nations bodies here in New York and around the world are working hard in different ways to help mitigate the terrorist threat that we all face. The United Kingdom welcomes the efforts of all these entities in helping to create the legal framework for countering terrorism by addressing the conditions that can give rise to violent extremism and through practical measures to help prevent terrorist attacks. But with so many international bodies involved in that effort, 31 separate entities in all, there is a risk that activity is not as coordinated as it could be. We therefore continue to support the Secretary-General’s call for the appointment of a United Nations counter- terrorism coordinator, which we believe could increase the impact of the United Nations counter-terrorism effort and help to promote a truly comprehensive approach. We would need the right mandate, and we would need to think carefully about how best to use the available resources, but we remain convinced that more effective coordination within and between international organizations is crucial to our success in tackling the global terrorist threat. It is also important that the United Nations continue to strive to work as effectively and in as coordinated a manner as possible with other multinational organizations working on counter-terrorism. We welcome the regular European Union-United Nations counter-terrorism dialogue and look forward to increased operational cooperation as a result. Similarly, we welcome the important contribution that the United Nations makes to the work of the Global Counter- Terrorism Forum. Madam President, I should like to thank you once again for using the occasion of your presidency of the Security Council to shine the spotlight on this important issue. The United Kingdom remains determined to work with Security Council colleagues, the wider United Nations membership and the key United Nations counter-terrorism bodies to advance our collective comprehensive counter-terrorism efforts.

I thank Baroness Swarsi for her comprehensive statement and for her support.

China expresses its appreciation to Pakistan for having proposed this open debate on counter-terrorism. I thank you, Madam President, for having travelled to New York to preside over this debate. I also thank Secretary- General Ban Ki-moon for his briefing. Pakistan is at the forefront of the international struggle against terrorism. The tremendous efforts and enormous sacrifices it has made in that regard are recognized by the whole world. On 10 January, several blasts took place in the city of Quetta, in the Pakistani province of Baluchistan, causing heavy casualties. China strongly condemns those attacks. We wish to express our deep condolences and sincere sympathy to the wounded and to the families of the victims. China rejects terrorism in all its forms and will continue to support the Government and people of Pakistan in their efforts to safeguard national stability and combat terrorism. The convening of this meeting is a strong testament to Pakistan’s responsible attitude towards the issue of counter-terrorism. China fully appreciates this effort. I am confident that our meeting today will help strengthen international consensus and contribute to international cooperation on counter-terrorism. In the wake of the events of 11 September, the Security Council swiftly adopted resolution 1373 (2001), which led to the establishment of the Counter- Terrorism Committee. That reflects the international community’s firm resolve to combat terrorism. In the ensuing years, some progress has been made, and the threat of terrorism on the whole is abating. On the other hand, the situation today remains quite serious. Terrorist activities are rampant in certain parts of the world, and the turbulence in certain other regions provides space for terrorist infiltration. We have seen new developments concerning terrorist organizations. The average age of terrorist operatives has decreased, the methods employed are becoming more varied, and some organizations are joining together to form terrorist networks. In a word, the breeding ground for terrorism is far from having been eliminated, and international counter-terrorism cooperation remains a long and uphill battle. Today’s open debate offers a valuable opportunity to explore effective and comprehensive ways to combat terrorism. I wish to set out the following positions of my Government on international counter-terrorism cooperation. First, we need to fully respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the countries concerned. In combating terrorism, it is important to adhere to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations; respect the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries; fully listen to their views and opinions; and carry out international cooperation on the basis of equality and mutual benefit. Without global support, the fight against terrorism cannot be sustained. Therefore, the international community should provide more assistance to those developing countries that suffer from a lack of capacity, while respecting the wishes of such countries. Secondly, we need to leverage the role of the United Nations and its Security Council as the main channel of cooperation. Terrorism is a threat to global peace and security. China supports the important role of the United Nations and its Security Council in coordinating national efforts and shaping a global response. It is important for countries to strictly abide by the relevant Security Council resolutions and fully implement the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. We welcome the establishment of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre, and we hope that there will be better coordination and greater synergy among the various counter-terrorism agencies of the United Nations. Thirdly, we need to adopt a comprehensive approach in addressing the root causes as well as the symptoms of this scourge. Terrorism is the result of a complex array of political, economic and social factors; it cannot be resolved by military means alone. Counter-terrorism efforts must be combined with economic growth and the proper settlement of regional conflict. There should also be more dialogue and exchanges between different civilizations, religions and ethnic groups, so as to promote mutual understanding, tolerance and harmonious coexistence. A comprehensive approach involving political, economic and diplomatic means should be employed in order to eliminate the root causes of terrorist activities. Fourthly, we need to reject double standards. Terrorism is the arch-enemy of all humankind. Terrorist activities, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed, under whatever pretext, should be condemned and combated. There should not be different standards for different attacks. The fight against terrorism should not be determined by ideology, nor should it be associated with specific countries, Governments, ethnicities or religious beliefs. On this issue, the international community should build greater consensus and speak in one voice. China has been suffering from terrorism. For years, the East Turkestan Islamic Movement and associated groups have carried out numerous violent terrorist attacks against China, causing heavy casualties and economic losses in my country. Definitive evidence abounds. Such attacks are grave threats not only to China’s national security, but also to the peace and stability of our region. The international community should join hands in a united effort against it. China has consistently played an active role in international exchanges on counter-terrorism cooperation. My Government has signed 12 relevant international conventions within the United Nations framework and faithfully implemented resolutions 1267 (1999) and 1373 (2001). Pursuant to paragraph 6 of resolution 1373 (2001), China has submitted seven reports to the Counter-Terrorism Committee, documenting China’s implementation of the resolution and the latest progress in its counter-terrorism endeavours. China has also taken an active part in international cooperation against terrorism financing. We have signed cooperation memorandums with 20 foreign financial intelligence agencies and joined the Financial Action Task Force, the Eurasian Group on Combating Money-Laundering and Financing of Terrorism, and the Asia/Pacific Group on Money-Laundering. We have also provided, as our ability permits, material assistance and training to support the counterterrorism efforts of other developing countries. The world has made considerable progress in the fight against terrorism. However, there is still a long way to go. The international community should strive tirelessly and take a comprehensive approach in order to wipe out terrorist threats. China pledges its continued efforts to that end.

I would like first to express our deep appreciation to Pakistan for convening a special debate under its presidency of the Security Council on the important subject of a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism. The Kingdom of Morocco shares Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening the international fight against terrorism and welcomes the concept paper prepared by the Pakistani delegation for our debate (S/2013/3, annex). I would also like to thank the Secretary-General for his insightful briefing, and to commend his commitment to reinforcing the United Nations leadership in combating terrorism and in mobilizing resources and expertise to strengthen the capacity of Members States. Over the past few years, the international community has steadily built stronger consensus, efficient strategies and a robust architecture with the aim of better responding to terrorism. Those major efforts have disrupted terrorist structures, foiled a number of terrorist plots and weakened the central command of major terrorist groups. However, the trends and methods of international terrorism continue to evolve, and terrorist groups are constantly adapting their modus operandi. Terrorist groups have developed a more regional agenda, with an even stronger nexus between terrorists and transnational organized crime networks and a more intensive use of information and communication technology. Terrorism is a highly complex and multidimensional phenomenon that we must address through renewed consensus and effective cooperation. If it is to be effective, our collective response to terrorism should rely on a comprehensive approach and dedicated strategies at the national, regional and international levels. The United Nations, as the appropriate and legitimate multilateral framework, has developed a robust counter-terrorism architecture. Over the past decade, the Security Council has shown remarkable determination in countering terrorism by adopting a significant number of resolutions, and it continues to strengthen the work of its counter-terrorism committees. As Chair of the Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC), Morocco is committed to working with all Member States Members to strengthen the action taken by the CTC to consolidate a strategic, transparent approach and to further strengthen facilitation and coordination of the provision of technical assistance that enhances Member States’ capacities to counter terrorism. We have today the tools. We have the instruments. I believe that the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy, adopted by the General Assembly in 2006, represents the most comprehensive and effective decision taken by the international community to eliminate the dangerous threat and to improve United Nations action. We also commend the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force for its consistent efforts to coordinate international support. Despite all those positive developments, terrorism remains a prominent threat to international peace and security. The United Nations must intensify its efforts, adapt its responses to the new patterns of terrorism, and diversify its partnership with regional and subregional organizations. In that context, we reiterate, as other delegations have reiterated this morning, our readiness to pursue discussions on all proposals seeking to further enhance the coherence, coordination and effectiveness of United Nations counter-terrorism efforts, including the proposal of the Secretary-General to appoint a United Nations counter-terrorism coordinator. Likewise, the United Nations should explore better ways to interact with other multilateral initiatives actively involved in the global fight against terrorism. In that regard, allow me to recall the important work done by the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism in seeking to improve national and international capacities for prevention, detection and response to a nuclear terrorist event. I recall in particular its most recent meeting in Rabat. We would also like to highlight the early and important achievements of the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum, in particular the Rabat Memorandum on Good Practices for Effective Counterterrorism Practice in the Criminal Justice Sector, adopted last year. Morocco has established a comprehensive and multidimensional counter-terrorism approach, rooted in its early commitment to contributing actively to the preservation of peace and security at all levels. The strategy is guided by Morocco’s attachment to the values of tolerance, human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. It also converges with the United Nations Strategy and complies with the Charter of the United Nations, relevant United Nations resolutions and other international legal instruments to which Morocco is party. The proactive Moroccan approach has been successfully translated into firm and preventive law enforcement measures with a dedicated counter- terrorism justice system, as well as into national initiatives aimed at addressing the various social, economic and cultural factors involved. Our effective approach is rooted in a series of essential building blocks, in particular the total rejection by all Moroccan citizens of terrorism and violence as means to achieve political objectives. Our firm commitment to pursuing irreversible democratic reforms, with human development as a shared and important priority, today provides Morocco with the best safeguard against the spread of violent extremism. Morocco has devoted equal attention and commitment to preventing the spread of terrorism and extremism at the regional level. For years, Morocco has persistently warned the international community about the deteriorating situation in the Sahel region, which continues to face complex multidimensional and interconnected challenges. The Sahel has emerged today as the centre stage of alarming activities involving terrorist and extremist groups that threaten the stability and security of the States of the Sahel, West Africa, the Maghreb and beyond. A year ago, the State of Mali saw the northern part of its territory progressively fall to armed extremist terrorist groups. Two thirds of its territory is now in the hands of terrorist elements whose confidence is ever-increasing, given the slow response of the international community to dislodge them. That state of mind was reflected in their actions last week, when they broke the de facto six-month ceasefire in place, thereby defying the decisions taken by the Security Council. In the wake of those alarming developments, Morocco supports the recent call of the Government of Mali for outside assistance to combat the terrorist elements and the response that is now being provided by bilateral partners. At the regional level, let me reiterate our call for a sustainable framework for dialogue, cooperation and solidarity — one that encompasses all States of the Sahel and the Maghreb in order to address in a holistic and effective manner the critical situation in the Sahel region. We need further joint responsibility, inclusive cooperation and constructive partnership to face those challenges. In conclusion, terrorism emanates from a complex set of interrelated political, economic and social factors. In combating it, we should not lose sight of the need to address the underlying causes by promoting political reforms and human development, eliminating social injustice and resolving regional conflicts. To provide sustainable solutions, terrorism must be addressed in a holistic manner that does not rely solely on military and law-enforcement measures, but also emphasizes the human dimension of the cooperation. We thereby firmly believe that the United Nations should remain the central framework to effectively take forward our fight against terrorism. We are equally convinced that national counter-terrorism strategies should include systematic and efficient regional and subregional cooperation. In keeping with its values and principles, Morocco intends to remain an active and fully committed partner of the United Nations and the entire international community in the global fight against the scourge of terrorism Our commitment could not be better expressed than by the words of His Majesty Mohammed VI, King of Morocco: “With regard to the fight against terrorism, Morocco will continue to implement a comprehensive, multidimensional strategy, in which security, democratic reforms and development efforts support and complement one another. Under that strategy, cultural creativity and enlightened thinking will also be encouraged, together with a firm commitment to the rule of law and to equality before the law and the nation’s legal system”.

First of all, allow me to express my appreciation to the Pakistani presidency for the initiative to hold this Council meeting on the strengthening of a comprehensive approach to counter- terrorism. The Russian Federation supports that approach through national measures and in advancing international counter-terrorism cooperation under the central coordinating role of the United Nations and the Security Council. We consider today’s meeting a practical manifestation of that general course and the logical continuation of the special meetings on counter- terrorism held by the Council last year (see S/PV.6765 and S/PV.6890). Unfortunately, the terrorist threat has not declined. A few days ago, a number of savage terrorist acts in Pakistan caused many casualties. We express our condolences to the bereaved family members and loved ones, our solidarity with them and our wishes for the victims’ speedy recovery. Terrorism is quickly adapting to new realities and adopting a new dimension and gravity. Reports on terrorist acts issue more frequently from regions previously untouched by such acts. We are facing an exceptionally dangerous global challenge to today’s world order and civilization that is hard to predict and threatens international peace and security. New grave problems in counter-terrorism security are building, spurred by conflict situations in North Africa, the Middle East and the Horn of Africa. That has resulted in increased terrorist group activities, including mobile cross-border displacement, rapid weapon acquisition — mostly from Libyan arsenals — and the establishment of new sources of financing. Terrorism is integrating more tightly with organized crime, including in West Africa and the Sahel region. It is no coincidence that criminal challenges in that region at the start of the past year became the subject of an open meeting of the Council (see S/PV.6765). The activity of Al-Qaida and the Taliban in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region continues to generate transnational terrorist threats, along with the illegal production and trafficking of narcotics. Terrorism is a non-traditional adversary. Terrorist organizations, unlike States, have no international obligations, bear no responsibility to society and operate under other references and moral practices. Assisted by modern information technologies and the Internet, terrorists have actively spread their ideology in order to recruit, organize and train rebels. A very dangerous trend is the determined spread of terrorist ideology and violent extremism often seen in anonymous inputs to social networks, under slogans of democracy and reform calling for the organization of street protests. We must be concerned about media broadcasts depicting crowds of dissatisfied people determined to protest under Al-Qaida flags and portraits of Osama Bin Laden. Equally, we are concerned about attempts made by supporters of Al-Qaida and other terrorist organizations to infiltrate Governments and civic organizations. Against that backdrop, a growing destructive wave of radicalism is provoking dangerous interreligious tensions in various regions, resulting in favourable conditions for attracting new adherents — especially young people — to such movements. One extremely alarming trend is the integration of terrorism into today’s regional and other armed conflicts, as seen, for example, in Mali. Under the flag of separatism, terrorists directly threaten the territorial integrity of States, thus undermining the foundations of international peace and security. It is encouraging that in neutralizing the terrorist threat in that country, the international community — as was particularly evident in yesterday’s Council consultations — is using common approaches. At the same time, we cannot but be concerned by the lack of a common Council position with respect to condemning the terrorist acts and threats in Syria, particularly in view of the growing influence among the opposition of terrorist organizations linked to Al-Qaida. The transnational nature of today’s terrorist threats requires the entire international community to pool its efforts to ensure effective cooperation in countering that dangerous challenge. A good effort has been made in that context, namely, the establishment of a global collective response to terrorist challenges that includes a solid treaty base, participation in which we must expand. On that basis, an extensive institutional cooperation model has been established under the central coordinating role of the United Nations. Regional, subregional and bilateral counter- terrorism efforts are developing dynamically. The scope and results of that work have, in turn, improved effective law enforcement cooperation under international, regional and bilateral formats. As a result, the potential of terrorist organizations has been significantly hampered through obstacles to the spread of their work and depriving them of important financial and logistical support channels. Nevertheless, the challenges in providing a timely and appropriate response to the changing terrorist threat remains a priority issue of the United Nations and the Security Council. We support strengthened cooperation among the General Assembly, without prejudice to the independent, active role of the Council in that area. We attach vital importance to the work of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1373 (2001), concerning counter-terrorism; the Security Council Committee pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999) and 1989 (2011), concerning Al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities; and the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1988 (2011). We note that with the December 2012 agreement of the Council on two resolutions on Al-Qaida and the Taliban, the Council has maintained its focus on the existing sanctions mechanisms in order to counter credible terrorist threats emanating from those organizations. Measures ensuring the transparency of those sanctions and allowing them freedom to operate should promote their effectiveness and increase their support for the quality of their work combating the Taliban and Al-Qaida. It is an international imperative that we prevent any kind of assistance to terrorists, whether military, technical or financial. States that disregard this obligation will eventually find that it backfires on them and will pay with their citizens’ lives for pandering to terrorism. One of the urgent tasks we face is ensuring the full implementation of resolution 2017 (2011), adopted on Russia’s initiative, which calls for a cluster of measures aimed at combating the uncontrolled proliferation of arms in Libya, particularly man- portable air-defence systems, This area has become an extremely dangerous source of support for terrorist and criminal organizations, not just in the Sahara-Sahel region but far beyond its boundaries. Also still relevant is the goal laid out in resolution 1624 (2005) of countering the ideology of terrorism by creating an atmosphere of total repudiation within the global community. It is essential that the struggle for people’s minds and hearts be conducted on the basis of a deepened intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding among civilizations and religions that firmly suppresses incitement to terrorism in all its forms. We must therefore establish effective cooperation with civil society in order to neutralize manifestations of violent extremism and terrorism at the earliest stages. The goal of universal implementation of the General Assembly’s approved Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy is more important than ever. It is a harmonious combination of hard and soft counter- terrorism approaches, the goals of various high-profile Security Council and General Assembly resolutions. The results of the third review of the Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy held in June last year present additional possibilities for building on the work of improving complex approaches to combating terrorism. In the context of the theme of today’s meeting, and bearing in mind the rapidly changing character of the global terrorist threat, it is especially important that the international community establish measures not only to respond quickly to crisis situations but also to prevent them altogether. We attach vital importance to the issues of preventing terror, suppressing the production of ideologies of extremism and violence, including by combating incitement to terrorism, as well as preventing the use of media spaces or the global Internet for terrorist purposes. It is vital that we develop consolidated responses to new terrorist threats, including in cyberspace. Practical efforts to comply with Security Council requests on banning terrorism propaganda sites, such as Kavkazcenter.com, the Swedish-based information mouthpiece of the terrorist organization Imarat Kavkaz, should also include the development of a global agreement as a basis for combating the use of cyberspace for terrorist and other criminal purposes, through organizing practical cooperation and confidence-building in this area. The terrorism of mass destruction increases the threat to international peace and security, and steps to prevent nuclear terrorism are particularly relevant. It is essential to broaden States’ participation in major United Nations and International Atomic Energy Agency conventions, in the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism and in implementing the decisions of the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit. The Committee established pursuant to 1540 (2004) should play an important role in achieving these goals. Russia intends to continue to actively support counter-terrorism efforts under United Nations auspices, including through our own expert experience and practice. In October, we received a mission from the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate to evaluate our country’s implementation of individual provisions of the Security Council’s baseline anti-terrorism resolutions, 1373 (2001) and 1624 (2005). The results of the visit demonstrated Russia’s commitment to the work of increasing international cooperation in this area under United Nations auspices and affirmed our contribution, as a permanent member of the Council, to the development and advancement of international standards in the field. We see socioeconomic prevention as one of the most important anti-terrorism priorities today and impossible without vigorous targeted measures aimed at caring for people and ensuring and protecting their rights, including the right to a dignified and secure existence and decent compensation for honest labour. People must be able to see an alternative to terrorism and other criminality and have the opportunity to make a conscious choice for development and creation. Contributions to achieving socioeconomic development projects could be made not only by States but also by United Nations anti-terrorism bodies and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), together with specialized economic organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization, the Economic Commission for Europe and regional bodies such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Collective Security Treaty Organization and the Commonwealth of Independent States. This type of synergy would open a new chapter in international donorship, uniting cooperative development with the fight against terrorism and other criminality. We believe it is particularly important to involve the business community in such efforts. In dealing with the challenges of preventing terrorism, this would help to weaken the socioeconomic basis of criminality, which as a rule puts down deep roots precisely in those places where poverty and unemployment prevail and the conditions for normal life are lacking. Partnerships with business are also useful for developing effective measures for ensuring the rights of victims of terrorism, including compensation through transnational insurance and reinsurance models for major acts of terrorism. Russia was the initiator of an international project partnering States with businesses in the fight against terrorism. At the proposal of the Russian presidency of the Group of Eight, a major conference was held in Moscow in 2006 to lay the foundations for such cooperation and seeing fulfilment in the form of numerous projects both in Russia itself and at the international level. In our view, it is currently important to support the decision, taken on Russia’s initiative in April 2012, of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice to begin work on establishing the foundations of international cooperation in providing security in the area of tourism from terrorist and other criminal threats. As part of a public-private partnership, a project is being developed under the auspices of the United Nations and the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute to prevent the flow of precious metals into the hands of terrorists and other criminals. It is essential that efforts be continued to trace and cut off financial sources supporting terrorism. On Russia’s initiative, the Financial Action Task Force is working on such relevant issues as exposing financial flows from the illegal production and trade of Afghan narcotics, a significant part of which goes to financing terrorism. Needless to say, finding solutions to these new challenges should in no way be seen as undermining the law-enforcement components of counter-terrorism, including information exchange, the conduct of joint anti-terrorist workshops and operations, cooperation on the criminal prosecution of terrorists and their resulting punishment, the suppression of financing, delivery of arms and other forms of support, as well as cooperation with training qualified staff and improving national legislation. These challenges can be met only on the basis of a firm commitment to the principles laid down in the United Nations Charter and the decisions of the Security Council and the General Assembly. Above all, we are talking about respecting States’ sovereignty, non-interference in their internal affairs, observing human rights and fundamental freedoms, condemning terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, wherever and by whomever terrorist acts may be committed, and refraining from supporting such criminal activity in any way. It is categorically unacceptable to depart in any way from the international community’s principled and consolidated position unconditionally condemning and actively combating terrorism. Political unscrupulousness in that regard will lead to an objective increase in the risks of terrorism. Combating international terrorism remains a priority of Russia’s foreign policy. We support the draft presidential statement to be delivered as a result of today’s meeting, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the comprehensive approach to international anti-terrorist cooperation under United Nations auspices. We wish to continue the dialogue and constructive cooperation in this area with all States Members of the United Nations, with the aim of increasing confidence in and unswerving compliance with international law.

Thank you, Madam, for having convened this very important meeting. I also thank the Secretary-General for his briefing and participation today. I would like to express once again our deepest condolences for the horrific attacks in Pakistan last week that killed more than 100 people. The United States stands with the Pakistani people in strongly condemning these senseless and inhumane acts, which unfortunately remind us that the scourge of terrorism remains with us all. We therefore very much appreciate Pakistan’s drawing the Council’s attention back to this critical issue. Reflecting on the past decade, the Security Council’s sustained commitment to counter-terrorism has been significant. We have continued to promote a holistic approach to combating terrorism, strengthening counter-terrorism efforts at the national, regional and international levels. We cannot grow complacent. Even as core Al-Qaida has experienced major setbacks, it survives and continues to threaten us all. Moreover, its affiliates and other violent extremist groups pose grave dangers. Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula is a significant international threat. Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and Al-Shabaab continue to sow instability and exploit safe havens in Mali, the Sahel and the Horn of Africa, destabilizing societies and obstructing the delivery of vital humanitarian relief to millions in need. Elements of Boko Haram in Nigeria have launched multiple deadly attacks, including against the United Nations, and transnational terrorist groups remain active in North Africa, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Syria and elsewhere. The resilience of terrorist networks underscores the fact that long-term diplomatic and economic initiatives, as well as international cooperation, are as always indispensible. While we have made progress together, terrorist groups continue to adapt, evolving into criminal entrepreneurs and engaging in trafficking and other illicit activities to finance their operations. AQIM, for example, has increasingly used kidnapping for ransom to support its organization and finance terrorist attacks. Kidnapping for ransom is not only horrific for the victims and their families, but represents a serious threat to international peace and security that will likely continue to pose a significant challenge in the years ahead. The international community must do much more to combat this scourge. With the terrorist threat ever more diffuse, the need for a strategic and comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism has never been greater. The United States recognizes that force, while necessary, is not nearly sufficient to counter the threat effectively over the long term. We must also prioritize building State capacity, strengthening good governance and civilian institutions, promoting economic development and job creation, countering extremism and reducing the appeal of violence and the pipeline of terrorist recruits so that Member States and their citizens are better equipped to tackle threats within their borders and regions. At the same time, the United States has intensified our capacity-building assistance to help countries secure their borders, thwart attacks, prosecute terrorists and those who abet them, and neutralize extremism and its root causes. We have trained more than 9,800 law enforcement officials from over 50 countries in the past year alone. United States legal advisers are working with host country Governments worldwide to build justice sector capacity to deal with terrorism. Our trans-Sahara counter-terrorism partnership has provided several countries in the Sahel and the Maghreb with training and support to tighten border security, promote economic assistance, disrupt terrorist networks and prevent attacks. By uniting civilian, criminal justice and military experts, this programme pursues a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism. In addition, we established the Center for Strategic Counterterrorism Communications to confront and rebut Al-Qaida and extremist propaganda online. The United States values its partnership with the United Nations on counter-terrorism, and our cooperation has produced results. For example, since effective prison management and good correctional practices can reduce the risk of radicalization, the United States has worked with the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute to develop the Rome good practices on the rehabilitation and reintegration of violent extremist offenders. We look forward to close cooperation between the United Nations and the new Hedayah International Center of Excellence for Countering Violent Extremism in Abu Dhabi, which will assist experts to develop tools for countering extremist ideology and blunting the spread of radicalism. Strengthening cooperation at the United Nations and other multilateral organizations and ensuring that the necessary architecture is in place to address terrorism in the twenty-first century remains central to our approach. The United Nations has worked actively to build consensus around the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and deliver technical assistance to strengthen capacities worldwide. The United Nations has a critical role to play as a forum for advancing collective action against terrorism. The United States welcomes the Secretary-General’s initiative to appoint a United Nations counter-terrorism coordinator and unify the United Nations counter-terrorism architecture so that expertise and resources can be deployed as efficiently as possible. We hope for even deeper cooperation between the United Nations and the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum in the coming year as the Forum promotes the implementation of its framework documents on the rule of law, prisons and preventing kidnapping for ransom. We look forward to working in the Security Council and with Member States to further strengthen implementation of the Al-Qaida sanctions regime. A key lesson of the past decade is the significant value that civil society can add to counter-terrorism efforts. Victims and victims associations, for example, have played important roles in preventing terrorism. We encourage all relevant United Nations actors to intensify engagement with and support for civil society on counter-terrorism objectives and combating violent extremism. No single country, no one organization and no particular tactic or tool alone can neutralize the threat of terrorism. Only a comprehensive approach, bolstered by our shared determination, our continued cooperation and expanding partnerships can ultimately end the threat of global terrorism.

At the outset, Argentina wishes to express its sincere condolences to the people and Government of Pakistan and to the families of victims of the recent terrorist attacks in that country. I congratulate Pakistan on having assumed this month’s presidency of the Security Council and on the effectiveness and transparency with which the Pakistani delegation has been guiding our work. I further wish to thank you, Madam, for having convened this very important and timely debate on one of the greatest threats to international peace and security. We are pleased in particular that you are presiding over this meeting. Terrorism is a threat to life, human dignity, peaceful and civilized coexistence, and international peace and security. We believe that a comprehensive approach to the problem is not only the most appropriate but in fact the only approach with the potential to succeed. In that regard, the approach proposed by the presidency to addressing the issue of terrorism could not be more timely. Argentina is convinced that the United Nations has a priority role to play in multilateral action. In that respect, we consider the Assembly and the Security Council and their relevant subsidiary bodies to be the most appropriate forums for effective action to prevent and eradicate terrorism. These are the bodies where we are able to take the best decisions, and whose critical effectiveness and legitimacy encourage joint action. In this connection, we believe that the Council should continue to work to ensure that these bodies are more effective and transparent, and that they be endowed with an appropriate mechanism to review the measures they take. In all cases, such bodies should resolve problems without creating consquences for the population in general. In September 2005, the former President of my country, Mr. Néstor Kirchner, stated forcefully at the Security Council summit that new threats to international peace and security, such as terrorism, “make us understand at last the true meaning of solidarity among nations” (S/PV.5261, p. 6). In the framework of the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy, a comprehensive approach to this matter strengthens our work in those areas where there is the greatest deficit, principally with regard to conditions that lead to the spread of terrorism and its financing, such as ensuring respect for human rights and the rule of law as the bases for our fight against terrorism. Neither religious nor ethnic differences nor economic circumstances can justify terrorist acts. On the other hand, tolerance and the rule of law, with full social inclusion and dignified work, foster an environment that counters the spread of terrorism and fights this scourge, as recognized in the draft presidential statement to be adopted by the Council. Argentina’s tragic experience of State terrorism, which led to massive and systematic violations of human rights, has led us to strengthen State policies in various areas of human rights, in particular with regard to memory, truth, justice and redress. In this framework, we galvanized international support for the progressive development of the right to truth with the recent creation of a Special Rapporteur in the Human Rights Council, and promoted the adoption of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Moreover, my country has suffered directly from international terrorism as the victim of two serious bombings in Buenos Aires in 1992 against the embassy of Israel and in 1994 against the headquarters of the Argentine-Israeli Mutual Association, which is one of the most important social organizations in Argentina. Those acts killed more than 100 people, whose memory is honoured by the Argentine people. A number of victims and their families survive. Together with the Government, they must walk the path towards truth, justice and redress. That experience has reaffirmed our conviction that terrorism must be fought in the framework of the rule of law and respect for fundamental freedoms. The struggle should be carried out in full respect for the law, including respect for due process and human rights. Terrorism, as one of the so-called new threats, is an illicit act with the capacity to affect domestic security and undermine public institutions. Actions to counteract it must correspond to the genuine risk faced by each country as it identifies threats in order to prioritize prevention. In Argentina, we have conferred upon the Ministry of National Security the leader role in coordinating inter-agency policy among the various agencies that are competent in this field. For its part, the Secretariat for Intelligence directs and coordinates the national intelligence system through its practical relationship with national intelligence bodies and forums. In that regard, we believe that the Security Council must commit its efforts, thorugh its relevant bodies, to promoting international cooperation in this area. This includes judicial cooperation, both with regard to extradiction and mutual assistance and in the fight against the financing of terrorism. To this end, we urge Member States to incorporate and apply in their internal legislation international legal instruments and United Nations resolutions relating to terrorism, so as to ensure that those who are accused of such crimes cannot exploit legal vacuums in order to evade justice. Within the multilateral and regional systems, we must work on speedy and effective mechanisms to freeze terrorist funds, taking into account the importance of dismantling the economic structures that support such organizations. In our case, we drafted a law for the effective implementation of resolutions 1267 (1999) and 1373 (2001) with regard to the procedure for the official freezing of funds related to this crime. It has been implemented by the competent body on fugitives associated with State terrorism and who are being investigated for crimes against humanity. Before ending, I would stress that the leadership is in the hands of the Organization, but its work is complemented, as required by the Charter of the United Nations, by subregional and regional efforts and by specialized agencies cooperating on matters of global intererst. One example of this is port and aeroport security and border controls, in which we must all continue to cooperate because they are additional, critical elements in our joint action against international terrorism. In conclusion, I affirm that the Argentine Republic supports the draft presidential statement to be read out by the President on behalf of the Security Council.

At the outset, allow me to convey the condolences and solidarity of our country following the terrorist acts that recently struck the people of Pakistan. I would also like to commend your country for organizing today’s debate on the question of a comprehensive approach to counter- terrorism and to welcome the presence in New York of Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, to preside over this meeting. I would also like to thank the Secretary-General, not only for his briefing on the topic under discussion, but also for all his efforts and for the ongoing United Nations initiatives to curb terrorism. My delegation associates itself with the statement to be delivered by the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. In recent years, terrorism has become one of the most serious threats to international peace and security. Indeed, the killings, kidnappings, hostage-taking and murders committed and called for by terrorists are serious violations of the rights to life and to live in a peaceful environment. Terrorism threatens the very survival of States. Consequently, this scourge remains the focus of the attention of the international community and especially of the Security Council. Today’s debate is a perfect illustration of that. Unfortunately, the tireless efforts to deal with it are far from achieving the expected results because terrorists take advantage of cutting-edge technologies and financial resources derived from criminal acts of all kinds, such as illicit trafficking in drugs and the payment of ransoms, in order to reorganize. In addition, the propensity of terrorists often to operate through business enterprises, associations and non-governmental organizations, which comprise their support networks, further complicates the fight against terrorism. As a result, the threats become more complex and require our States to devote significant resources to the fight against terrorism at a time when they must also face many challenges that are urgent in many ways because they are related to the fight against poverty and the achievement of sustainable development goals. Given its various manifestations and mutations, it is important to define the phenomenon of terrorism in order to better fight it. It is therefore necessary to better understand the reasons and motives that drive actors to turn to terrorism. As we know, it more generally feeds off of situations of social vulnerability and the frustrations of individuals, especially young people, who are willing to offer their services for sordid causes in order to survive. Development and security thus interact on the levels of both causes of terrorism and its consequences. It is also important to remember that religious fundamentalism and sectarianism act as leavening agents for terrorism. Based on beliefs, dogmas and membership in a community, criminal groups use that form of expression, intolerant and uncompromising, as a means to assert their opinions. Another motive may be related to the internationalization of economies and societies, which has made the process of change more global and complex, creating a situation in which the State finds itself competing with and sometimes defeated by private interests dominated more by the pursuit of profit than by other values related to human dignity. Unfortunately, the economic and financial crises of recent years, which no nation was able to stave off, have further widened the gap between rich and poor and have led to frustration, despair and even to losing the reason to live. It is that vulnerability that terrorist organizations and groups exploit when they recruit desperate people to carry out their demands through terrorist acts, behind which they hide and for which they claim responsibility so that they can bask in the prestige of being fighters for justice. The spectrum of factors leading to the spread of terrorism is therefore broad. However, my delegation believes that even if poverty, discrimination and prejudice are factors that feed terrorism, no justification can prevail in the commission of criminal acts when there are frameworks for dialogue, negotiation and a search for compromise in which the various actors can assert their claims or views. Given the scale of the terrorist acts that undermine societies and bring about disastrous consequences for States and entire regions — as is the case for the Sahel region, including Mali, and in Somalia — the international community must remain constantly mobilized. We therefore welcome the counter-terrorism efforts in the United Nations framework, particularly the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, which represents the willingness of Member States to develop a common strategic approach to fight terrorism effectively and sustainably. In that regard, my country welcomes the recent review of the Strategy, which allows for continuous updating of the various aspects that need to be addressed in the light of the changing nature of terrorism, The commitment of the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate and the Counter- Terrorism Implementation Task Force to allow States to have the capacity needed to deal with this scourge must also be welcomed. In addition, Togo fully supports the work of the Security Council committees established pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999) and 1989 (2011), 1373 (2001), and 1540 (2004), which are also at the heart of the United Nations response to terrorism. My country has always made the fight against terrorism one of the top priorities of its actions. It has also adopted the framework made up by the various legal instruments adopted under the auspices of the United Nations and regional organizations such as the African Union, which aim to improve the effectiveness of States’ responses and those of the international community with regard to the numerous manifestations of terrorism. Although there are a number of anti-terrorist legal instruments in force for the purpose of strengthening international anti-terrorist mechanisms, a general convention on international terrorism should be adopted to fill the gaps in existing treaties and to strengthen international efforts designed to bring the perpetrators of terrorist acts to justice. In that regard, we believe that the consideration by States Members of the United Nations of certain provisions of existing regional legal texts, such as the Organization of African Unity Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism, of 14 July 1999, and its Protocol of 8 July 2004, could help to overcome the difficulties related to the conclusion of an international convention. Because of the impact of poverty, inequality and intolerance of all sorts in the spread of terrorism, we believe that the security and legal dimensions of the fight against terrorism cannot be effective unless they are also considered in the light of efforts related to good governance, economic development, the creation of viable democratic institutions, the strengthening of the dialogue among civilizations, respect for cultural differences and the peaceful settlement of disputes. Furthermore, the fight against terrorism should also take human rights into account and promote their effective implementation. In other words, all measures taken to prevent and fight against terrorism must respect the principle of the rule of law and operate in accordance with international law, including humanitarian law, international human rights law and refugee law. In that regard, the United Nations could commit to working towards model legislation on terrorism-related offences, as specified in the relevant conventions and protocols, as it had to do when it acted in the areas of money-laundering and the financing of terrorism. A comprehensive approach to the fight against terrorism cannot be effective unless it takes place in the context of sustained international cooperation. Synergy of action, the sharing of information between the different institutions involved in the fight and technical and financial assistance are essential to achieve, in the short and medium terms, the eradication of the constant threat hanging over all countries and all peoples. Togo believes that it is through combined actions at the bilateral, regional and international levels that States, especially the less affluent, may expect to fight effectively against terrorism. To that end, the central coordinating role of the United Nations must be reaffirmed and supported by all States.

At the outset, I would like to thank the Pakistani presidency of the Security Council for its timely initiative in holding this important debate on a comprehensive approach to counter- terrorism. I also thank the Secretary-General for his insightful briefing and express our appreciation to the Secretariat and the relevant United Nations entities for their contribution to counter-terrorism activities. Azerbaijan knows about the scourge of terrorism, and not from hearsay. My country has repeatedly been a target of terrorist attacks. The activity of well- known State-sponsored international terrorist groups, the ideology of which is based on historical, racial and religious prejudice and hatred, is a serious threat to Azerbaijan’s national security and to the security of our region as a whole. It was not a coincidence that Azerbaijan decided to focus on the issue of combating terrorism as a central theme of its presidency of the Security Council last year. On 4 May 2012, Azerbaijan organized a high- level meeting of the Security Council on strengthening international cooperation in the implementation of counter-terrorism obligations (see S/PV.6765). As an important outcome of that, a presidential statement was adopted (S/PRST/2012/17). In his address to the Security Council, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, underlined “We must all join our efforts to combat terrorism. The nature of terrorism today and its increasing connection with other threats to international peace and security require close international cooperation among States, including through the establishment of a more coordinated, coherent and systematic United Nations approach” (S/PV.6765, p. 23). The President of Azerbaijan also outlined the concrete threats and challenges faced by my country and provided a comprehensive analysis and assessment in that regard. My Government has continually taken comprehensive measures to fully implement its respective international obligations and to contribute to the global fight against this scourge. We strongly support and actively work for more strengthened international cooperation to that end. It is pertinent to mention that, in furtherance of our efforts, on 18 and 19 March, Azerbaijan will host an international conference on strengthening cooperation in preventing terrorism, co-organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. The conference will bring together Heads of State and Government, ministers, heads of international organizations, prominent persons and members of civil society and academia. Its objectives include initiating an in-depth and forward-looking exchange of views on challenges to and opportunities for countering terrorism, reviewing the ways of promoting international cooperation and, most importantly, generating concrete ideas and project proposals for providing technical assistance to national authorities with a view to strengthening their capacities. With its changing nature and character, terrorism poses a serious threat to international peace and security and to the political independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and social and economic development of all States. Today, when our world continues to suffer from terrorism and terrorist acts, in their frequency and magnitude, claim the lives of innocent people and undermine peace and security, a comprehensive approach to combating this scourge through concerted and coordinated international actions remains vital. The international community, including through United Nations efforts, has achieved tangible results in countering terrorism. At the same time, a number of critical areas continue to require our constant attention. I would like to emphasize some of them. Conflict-affected territories, especially those under foreign military occupation, often provide fertile ground for terrorists and other non-State actors, who use terrorism as a means of achieving their illegal goals. The accumulation of armaments and ammunition in those territories beyond international control and the risk of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and related materials to non-State actors pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and security. While recognizing the significance of addressing all conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism, in line with the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, we stress the need to intensify conflict- resolution efforts on the basis of the generally accepted norms and principles of international law, particularly those relating to respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of the internationally recognized borders of States. The full implementation of international legal obligations by all States is fundamentally important. However, it is not sufficient to simply mention that objective. A large number of States encounter capacity gaps in implementing their respective obligations. Addressing that perennial problem should remain at the core of international counter-terrorism efforts. We appreciate the role of the relevant United Nations entities in facilitating technical assistance to Member States. At the same time, in order to respond effectively and in a timely manner to the various security challenges posed by terrorism, it is essential that Member States themselves strengthen their cooperation through bilateral and multilateral mechanisms on the issue of capacity-building assistance. The war on terrorism cannot and must not be used to target any religion or culture. That principle must be part and parcel of any counter-terrorism strategy. All States should be united in supporting various initiatives on intercultural and interreligious dialogue, such as the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and the culture of peace initiative. Strengthening cooperation within those initiatives will serve to prevent misconceptions, defamatory manifestations and deliberate labelling of religions and contribute to the efficiency of counter- terrorism efforts. As a responsible member of the Group of Friends of the Alliance of Civilizations, Azerbaijan is actively engaged in promoting interreligious and intercultural dialogue. We therefore recently organized a number of high-profile and action-oriented events, including the World Summit of Religious Leaders and the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue. In conclusion, we welcome the draft presidential statement to be adopted later in today’s meeting. It is aimed at developing counter-terrorism cooperation under the auspices of the United Nations. Azerbaijan will continue to contribute to that work through international cooperation based on strict adherence to the norms and principles of international law.

Let me join others in thanking Her Excellency Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, for organizing this important debate and for her commendable statement. I also welcome the statement made by the Secretary-General. Rwanda reiterates its strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, as it constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace, security and development. Terrorism violates not only the Charter of the United Nations but also the principles and values of the Constitutive Act of the African Union. My Government has ratified the 14 universal instruments against international terrorism, as elaborated within the framework of the United Nations system, relating to specific terrorist activities and has also embraced the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy, together with its plan of action. My country has also ratified the 1999 Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism of the former Organization of African Unity. My delegation commends and encourages the efforts and activities undertaken by the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee and its relevant bodies and agencies in the framework of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy to address the threats to international peace and security caused by extremism, violence and terrorism. We also commend the African Union, which, in an effort to translate the commitment of its members into concrete actions, established in 2004 the African Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism, headquartered in Algiers. The main objective of the Centre is to strengthen cooperation among African countries, to prevent and combat terrorism and to assist in the full implementation of international conventions relating to terrorism. In that respect, Rwanda expresses its continued engagement with international and regional partners, both bilateral and multilateral, in order to contribute to an enhanced coordination of international efforts to prevent and combat terrorism. Rwanda firmly believes that effective and prevention-focused counter-terrorism measures require adequate national legal and institutional frameworks, including a strong criminal justice element that is rooted in the core principles of the rule of law, due process and respect for human rights. In that respect, Rwanda has implemented, through a legal and institutional framework, the recommendations of resolution 1373 (2001), including the establishment of a national counter-terrorism committee with a national focal point, comprising members of the different national security organs, and a functional counter-terrorism unit within the Rwanda National Police. Our country has also adopted legislation on the prevention and penalization of money laundering and the financing of terrorism. That led to the establishment of the Financial Investigation Unit, as part of the Rwanda National Police, which operates within the National Bank of Rwanda. Rwanda is also a member of the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group and the East African Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization. Both those organizations were inspired by the Organization of African Unity’s 1999 Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism and are in line with the spirit of resolution 1373 (2001). In a Security Council open debate on counter- terrorism such as today’s, it is important for Rwanda to condemn acts of terrorism around the world. We are particularly concerned about the scourge of terrorism in Africa, which could spread across the continent if we do not combat it. We condemn Al- Shaabab in Somalia, Ansar Dine and other Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb- affiliated organizations in Mali and North Africa, Boko Haram in Nigeria and other terrorist organizations on the continent. Terrorists are the enemy of peace and stability. Unfortunately, the conflicts and situations of statelessness in a number of countries in Africa provide a fresh breeding ground for terrorism. It is not a coincidence that terrorists regularly attack peacekeepers and threaten countries that contribute them. Therefore, resolving conflicts on the continent is an absolute priority, not only to bring peace and stability for the present but also to serve as a preventive measure against widespread terrorism on the continent. Another preventive measure against terrorism is of course to address the root causes. Rwanda believes that there can be no justification whatsoever for terrorism. Nonetheless, we all know that poverty, unemployment, bad governance and injustice feed terrorism around the world. In that regard, terrorism in the Arab world is also a reminder that there is an urgent need for the international community to find a lasting solution to the longest conflict on the Council’s agenda, namely, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While regional and international efforts are making progress in the combat against terrorism and in the resolution of regional conflicts, attention should also be paid to terrorist organizations that change names and acronyms upon being classified as terrorists. They later masquerade as political organizations, yet have all the characteristics of terrorists. A case in point is the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda, operating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They are the product of the Armée pour la libération du Rwanda, which, upon being blacklisted as a terrorist movement, changed its name and acronym but retained all its terrorist characteristics. I will conclude by expressing our sympathy to Pakistan, which, as Minister Hina Rabbani Khar said, is “one of the biggest victims of terrorism”. In that connection, we particularly pay a symbolic tribute to Malala Yousafzai for her extraordinary courage. I also wish to pay tribute to those who continue to work tirelessly for the well-being of the victims and who speak out against terrorism, extremism and violence.

I wish to thank the delegation of Pakistan for having convened this open debate. Our thanks also go to Pakistan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar, for presiding over it. We are also grateful for the concept note that has been distributed in the annex to document S/2013/3. We appreciate the presence of the Secretary-General and thank him for his presentation. From a national perspective, it could be maintained that terrorism is not an endemic evil in my country or, in more general terms, our Latin American region. However, from a broader perspective, we find in that phenomenon one of the greatest challenges that humanity faces. That is why we categorically reject terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, whatever its origin. There is simply no pretext to inflict on innocent persons the horrors, suffering and costs of that scourge. We believe that a terrorist act, wherever it occurs, such as the one that took place in your country, Mr. President, a few days ago, harms and causes offense to all the planet’s inhabitants. That is also why we must take preventive actions and develop decisive and collective responses in the context of international cooperation. The United Nations plays a fundamental role in that area. Besides the body of international conventions and their protocols designed to combat terrorism, since 2006 we have depended on the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, which we generally update every two years. Furthermore, the Council has placed itself at the forefront of mobilizing international cooperation against terrorism. It is unnecessary to list the numerous resolutions that refer directly or indirectly to this matter, or to the bodies established to that end. As the Strategy expressly notes, the fight against terrorism is not limited to the realm of espionage, defence and security. It is equally or maybe even more important to address the causes conducive to the spread of terrorism, that motivate individuals or groups to use indiscriminate violence against innocent persons, or at least incite the use of violence and xenophobia. This encompasses a broad thematic agenda, ranging from the promotion of economic and social development to the strengthening of the institutions of democratic governance and the rule of law. It also entails addressing the sources of strong tension that reflect a background of ethnic, religious or ideological differences in the context of mobilizing the classical instruments of conflict prevention. This requires assigning a special role to the virtue of tolerance in the values that we wish to instil in each of our societies and at the international level. At the same time, we must take care to avoid using counter-terrorism measures as a pretext to violate the basic human rights of our respective populations. Given the multidimensional character of this phenomenon, it is difficult to speak about a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism without mentioning the need to adopt the long- overdue comprehensive convention on terrorism as soon as possible. In weighing the added value of a comprehensive convention that would supplement existing instruments to counter international terrorism, we find merit, among other aspects, in the following. First, a comprehensive convention would contribute to preventing impunity for those who commit acts of terrorism, which are currently one of the major threats to international peace and security; secondly, it would facilitate cooperation and mutual legal assistance among States to bring to justice those responsible for such acts; thirdly, it would offer a definition for terrorism, allowing for the universal criminalization of such despicable activity; and fourthly, it would fill existing gaps in the work of the Security Council, and in particular of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1373 (2001), and the measures applied by the sanctions committees. Furthermore, we are concerned about the specific issue of the link between organized transnational crime and terrorism. This topic is briefly touched upon both in the concept note circulated by the delegation of Pakistan and in the draft presidential statement whose text we will approve this morning. The common aspect shared by some of the criminal cartels that operate in our own region with terrorist groups is the absolute disdain with which they treat human life. There is already abundant evidence that terrorist groups accede to criminal activities to finance their violent actions, but we can also foresee the day when criminal cartels accede to terrorist activities as part of their strategy of accumulating illicit wealth. The need for a comprehensive and holistic approach to address this complex phenomenon, as suggested in the concept note, leads us to one final reflection on the imperative of achieving a greater level of coherence among the different efforts being undertaken by the United Nations to meet the challenge of terrorism. The creation of the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force in 2005 marked a step in the right direction, but one can question whether the goal of coherence is benefitted by the arguably excessive decentralization of the efforts of the Security Council to combat terrorism in its diverse subsidiary bodies, including those established pursuant to resolutions 1373 (2001), 1267 (1999), 1989 (2011) and 1540 (2004). We entertain the same doubts regarding the level of coordination between the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate and the various departments of the Secretariat that service the work of the General Assembly. This is neither the place nor the time to make specific proposals on how to achieve greater coherence within the United Nations system in the area of counter-terrorism, but we members of the Security Council should at least begin to discuss among ourselves whether there is enough internal coherence in the work entrusted to the aforementioned sanctions committees. At any rate, we greatly value the work of the United Nations in combating terrorism in support of Member States, which ultimately share the main responsibility in facing this grave scourge.

I thank you, Mr. President, for Pakistan’s leadership in hosting this debate. We know that Pakistan is on the front line of terrorism. The terrible attacks in Quetta, the Swat Valley and elsewhere in Pakistan in the past week have been a stark reminder of this. In the face of that violence, the example of Malala Yousafzai and her fellow students is inspirational. It must strengthen our determination to oppose terrorism and it must be our beacon. Terrorism is still one of the most serious threats to international peace and security and therefore must remain a decisive focus for the Council. The threat is now more diffuse and decentralized, but the fact is that in the past few years some 12,000 people have been killed in terrorist attacks annually, and States and regions are still destabilized. The nature of the threat and the methods and strategies of terrorist groups are constantly evolving and presenting new risks. We are now engaged against terrorism’s direct threat in Mali and the Sahel. Of course, States’ understanding of the most effective ways to tackle terrorism has also evolved. Evidence and experience are accumulating, enabling us to refine approaches and improve our effectiveness. We know that good intelligence, strong law enforcement and prosecutions are important, but we also know that they are not enough. We must also tackle the drivers of terrorism, the terrorist narrative and the processes of radicalization. The Security Council shares a strong commitment against terrorism. That is very clear from all the comments that have been made today, so I will limit my comments to addressing two crucial elements of a comprehensive approach: effective prevention, and strengthened cooperation and coordination within and between States. States have had considerable success in prosecuting terrorists and degrading major terrorist networks. That is certainly the case in Australia’s own region of South- East Asia, where, for example, Indonesia has prosecuted more than 600 terrorists since the Bali bombings in 2002. However, that shared law enforcement success has also exposed a key challenge: prisons are, in many cases, a weak link in our counter-terrorism efforts. Terrorists continue to recruit and plan attacks from prison, and the reality is that many prisoners are now beginning to be released. Effectively managing and rehabilitating extremist detainees is therefore increasingly important for prevention. Sharing best practices and developing common strategies for that is essential. The Global Counter-Terrorism Forum’s work in that area has been highlighted today. Australia, Indonesia and other South-East Asian countries are using that work to develop regional approaches. Terrorist organizations continue to recruit new members and sympathizers. To defeat terrorism, we must counter the forces that drive it. That means strengthening our societies to reject violent extremism. Approaches will vary depending upon circumstances, but some common elements include the following. The first is ensuring inclusive communities where everyone has a voice and where everyone has access to education, with strong curriculums, and access to work. The world is experiencing a tremendous youth bulge. As China’s Vice Foreign Minister Cui Tiankai said this morning, the average age of terrorists is decreasing. Youth unemployment remains one of the greatest vulnerabilities in all regions and societies. We need to make urgent progress in engaging youth in our societies, most basically by generating jobs. The second is promoting values that, when broadly subscribed, can help communities resist the terrorists’ message. Those values include tolerance, understanding and dialogue within and between religions and cultures, as well as respect for diversity. The third is strengthening the rule of law and ensuring fairness and equality before the law, so as to remove a potential grievance that is often exploited by terrorists. Clearly, States need to be innovative in using modern communications to promote those values. The Internet provides a perfect medium for terrorists to recruit, propagate their ideology and secure financing. Research is showing that young people — those most susceptible to extremists’ messaging — are more familiar with the terrorist narrative than they are with the positive counter-narrative. Governments need to drive the debate on the Internet and through social media to ensure that their positive messaging is heard above the extremists’ messaging. We must also continue to communicate the values of tolerance, understanding, equality and diversity at the international level. The Alliance of Civilizations and interfaith dialogue, such as the regional dialogue we have had in South-East Asia for the past decade, are still crucial. An effective, comprehensive approach to terrorism also demands strong collaboration and coordination nationally, regionally and globally. Effective coordination at the national level requires systematic cooperation between law enforcement agencies and with other agencies that are better equipped to address the causes of terrorism, such as agencies for youth, culture, religion, education and community affairs. That means frequent communication about threats, operations and long-term objectives. States also need to strengthen collaboration with regional networks. We have learned from experience with the Jakarta Centre for Law Enforcement Cooperation the real benefits of bringing together regional law-enforcement professionals for training in a dedicated facility. The Centre has trained more than 12,000 officers and, in the process, built understanding of the common challenges and diverse needs of the Asia- Pacific region, strengthened personal relationships that deliver cooperation across borders, and developed a sense of common purpose. We need more of those regional facilities in other regions. Australia is committed to working with others to achieve that. At the global level, effective coordination among United Nations entities is necessary to promote a comprehensive approach. The appointment of a United Nations counter-terrorism coordinator would enhance strategic and operational cohesion and should happen. As others have mentioned, more cooperation is needed globally to prevent the financing of terrorism. We also need to further mainstream the analysis of terrorism, its causes and measures to address it into the United Nations peace and security agenda, including the mandates of political missions and peacebuilding efforts. In conclusion, let me emphasize that, as a newly elected member of the Security Council, Australia will continue to strongly support the Council’s ongoing efforts to combat and prevent terrorism. As the threat continues to evolve, our strategies to counter it also need to improve. The Council’s role will continue to be central in that regard. No matter how hard the task, we must be a step ahead.

I would like to thank you, Mr. President, for demonstrating your leadership and for convening this important debate on counter-terrorism. I would also like to thank Secretary- General Ban Ki-moon for his introductory briefing. First of all, on behalf of my country, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to you, Mr. President, your country and the bereaved and distressed families who suffered from the hideous terrorist attacks in Quetta last week. Over the past decade, the international community has made concerted and cooperative efforts and achieved progress in countering terrorism, such as significantly weakening Al-Qaida’s core group in Afghanistan. However, terrorism continues to be a serious threat to international peace and security. Al-Qaida is still a source of security concern, as its regional affiliates continue to expand their influence in such regions as northern Mali and the southern Arabian peninsula. There is also the growing threat of home-grown terrorism. Moreover, terrorist organizations have now begun to build a nexus with other transnational criminal operations, such as drug trafficking, kidnapping, the illicit trade in arms and piracy. Terrorist organizations are becoming more sophisticated and constantly finding new ways to extend their reach through the use of the Internet and other information and communication technologies. Furthermore, the fear that terrorists may acquire weapons of mass destruction lingers. Terrorism can strike in any region and any country at any time. Individual States alone cannot cope with the scope, diversity and constant evolution of the terrorist threat. Effective counter-terrorism efforts require strong international cooperation in law enforcement, information-sharing and the suppression of terrorism financing. It is also crucial that Member States provide support to other States in capacity-building and technical assistance. Taking effective measures to tackle terrorism is impossible without strengthening the capacity and preparedness of all Member States. The United Nations has played central roles in leading international cooperation in the fight against terrorism. The United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, adopted unanimously by the General Assembly in 2006, has provided a solid foundation for comprehensive and systematic counter-terrorism activities by the international community. As stressed during its third review in the Assembly, last June, it is imperative that all Member States fully and faithfully implement the Strategy in an integrated manner. The Republic of Korea welcomes the role of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee and its Executive Directorate in implementing the relevant Security Council resolutions, coordinating individual States’ efforts, promoting their cooperation and contributing to the capacity-building of Member States. We also acknowledge the continuing efforts of the Secretary-General in maintaining a consistent and results-driven United Nations approach to counterterrorism. We commend the improvement in international coordination through the Counter- Terrorism Implementation Task Force. The recent establishment of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre and its active operation are also laudable. My Government supports the Secretary-General’s recommendation, contained in his report last year, to appoint a United Nations counter-terrorism coordinator. We are of one mind that terrorism cannot be countered by military means or law enforcement alone, and that a comprehensive approach is the only way to deal with new manifestations of terrorism and to address the conditions conducive to its spread. First, it is necessary to tackle socioeconomic and environmental conditions. We need to deal with the diffusion of violent extremism by marginalized groups. We need to solve unemployment problems and expand educational opportunities. Our concerted efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals, including poverty eradication and sustainable development, as specified in the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy, would be a big step in the right direction. Furthermore, we need to strengthen dialogue, understanding and tolerance among civilizations, cultures, peoples and religions. Secondly, it is essential that the effort to combat terrorism be in accordance with obligations under international law and fundamental values such as the protection of human rights and the rule of law. We need to ensure that countering terrorism and protecting human rights are not contradictory, but complementary. Only then can we win the hearts and minds of those who are exposed to terrorism’s lure. Thirdly, it is imperative to deal with the new trend of using the Internet and social media to incite, recruit and finance terrorist movements. We need to deny a virtual safe haven for terrorists and prevent such misuse of cyberspace. We look forward to in-depth and constructive discussions on this matter at the Seoul Conference on Cyberspace, to be held in October. Fourthly, halting the flow of terrorist financing is one of the fundamental measures to be taken. In that regard, we acknowledge the roles of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and related regional bodies. As a member of the FATF, my Government is active in global efforts to halt the financial flows that fuel terrorism. We have managed training courses and shared our own experience in establishing a financial intelligence unit with other Member States. Last but not least, we would like to emphasize that the prevention of the terrorist use of weapons of mass destruction is the top priority for international security in the twenty-first century. In March 2012, the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit produced the Seoul communiqué, which provides highly comprehensive and practical measures for the prevention of nuclear and radioactive terrorism. We encourage the full implementation of the commitments under the communiqué. It was with that imperative in mind that the Secretary-General convened the high-level meeting on countering nuclear terrorism, with a specific focus on strengthening the legal framework, in September 2012. As the new Chair of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1540 (2004), the Republic of Korea will work together with Member States to enhance global efforts to prevent the terrorist use of weapons of mass destruction. During our term, we plan to continuously strengthen the Committee and qualitatively assist Member States in implementing resolution 1540 (2004). Through this open debate, I hope that we will improve our understanding of the terrorist threat and be reminded of the urgency of promoting cooperation in countering terrorism. The Republic of Korea stands ready to actively participate and cooperate in implementing our comprehensive strategy to counter terrorism.

I thank the Pakistani presidency of the Security Council for organizing today’s debate focused on the fight against terrorism. I align my delegation with the statement to be made by the Head of the Delegation of the European Union. As Pakistan was the victim last week of several terrorist attacks, particularly in Quetta, which resulted in more than 100 deaths, I very much want to express France’s solidarity with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism. Those recent attacks are a sad reminder of the brutality and fanaticism of terrorists. Terrorism has evolved, but it continues more than ever to be a serious threat to international peace and security. The international community must today confront a loose conglomeration of local organizations that claim to follow Al-Qaida and whose presence endangers the security and development of entire regions, especially in the Sahel and in the Horn of Africa. We know that terrorist groups take advantage of regional weaknesses to create safe havens for themselves, which can become base camps from which to target neighbouring States or can become hotbeds of international terrorism. The emergence of such zones, where trafficking of all kinds fuels terrorism, represents a very concrete threat and can lead to putting the very existence of a State in danger. In resolution 2085 (2012), the Council underlined the urgency of the situation in northern Mali, which is a threat to the Malian population and to the stability of the Sahel, of Africa and of the entire international community. As members know, since that resolution’s adoption the threat has become clear, and France responded to the call from the Malian authorities for assistance in facing it. The Council has not ceased to reaffirm that terrorism constitutes a serious threat to international peace and security. Resolution 1368 (2001), of 12 September 2001, already affirmed that. It is affirmed again in the draft presidential statement to be adopted later today. In confronting the threat, the international community must display unity and solidarity. To fight terrorism in a comprehensive manner and to avoid the emergence of lawless areas conducive to the development of terrorism, it is essential that the international community commit to effectively implementing existing mechanisms and adopt long- term strategies. First, the effective implementation of international instruments and the strengthening of international cooperation are essential to fight terrorism comprehensively. The United Nations has made possible the establishment of a legal framework in this area. The body of United Nations conventions and protocols define the universal obligations to fight terrorism, and we must continue to insist on their full implementation. The relevant Council resolutions have also established obligations in the matter, covering a wide range of issues that range from combating incitement to commit terrorist acts, and against financing such acts, to the use of sanctions. Beyond the establishment of that legal framework, the United Nations has made possible stronger international cooperation, especially through the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, which aims to coordinate existing mechanisms and to strengthen cooperation among States and organizations. That strengthened cooperation applies in several types of measures that enable the United Nations to take a comprehensive approach in the fight against terrorism, by addressing the causes — eliminating the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism — by helping States fight terrorism through building their capacity, and by putting in place measures to ensure respect for human rights in the anti-terrorist fight. Such efforts must be pursued. Lastly, the fight against terrorism must be integrated into more comprehensive, long-term strategies. From that perspective, it is essential to put in place security policies to combat the fragility of States, which is often a factor in creating conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. But those security policies must be accompanied by programmes to encourage development and good governance. It is therefore necessary for the international community to provide assistance designed to strengthen State governance and institutional capacity — for example, by establishing regional strategies. That is the approach employed by the European Union, whose strategy for the Sahel includes a security component and a development component. Strengthening capacities and promoting the rule of law are two essential components for a long- term approach in the fight against terrorism. States threatened by the activity of terrorist groups should be able to benefit from political and operational cooperation among States, especially at the regional level. For instance, France is participating in the setting up of judicial anti-terrorism hubs in Mauritania and the Niger and encouraging training for judges, for it is essential that those States have the means to judge and sentence terrorists, while respecting human rights. While a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism can sometimes require exceptional measures, it must also be part of a long-term strategy.

I wish to advise all speakers to limit their statements to no more than four minutes in order to enable the Council to carry out its work expeditiously. Delegations with longer statements are requested to circulate the texts in writing and deliver a condensed version when speaking in the Chamber. I give the floor to the representative of Brazil.

We commend Pakistan for having convened this debate, which constitutes an excellent opportunity to highlight the importance of strengthening a comprehensive approach to counter terrorism. Brazil joins previous speakers in expressing our condolences to you, Mr. President, to your country and to the Pakistani people on the terrible terrorist attacks that took place in Pakistan last week. We also thank the Secretary-General for his presentation. Brazil has long supported international efforts on counter-terrorism. We have always condemned, and always will condemn, terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In fact, repudiation of terrorism is a tenet enshrined in the Brazilian Constitution and serves as a guiding principle for our foreign policy. As a multidimensional threat, terrorism must be addressed through a holistic approach that takes into consideration its underlying causes. Radicalism and violence often stem from long-standing social, political, economic and cultural exclusion, amid which a culture of intolerance may thrive. Development and inclusiveness are key tools to combat terrorism. Fully aware of the interdependence between peace, security and development, Brazil commends the approach contained in the Pakistani concept note (S/2013/3, annex) in that regard. Brazil fully supports the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Its various pillars provide a comprehensive and integrated perspective on the root causes of terrorism. Tackling the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism is the best means of preventing the recurrence of this phenomenon in the long term. As we have noted on a number of occasions, prevention is always the best policy. Focusing on preventive aspects means the promotion of democratic values, international cooperation for social and economic development, and political, ethnic and religious tolerance. Countering terrorism should never justify disregard for basic individual rights and the rule of law. The fight against terrorism must be undertaken in compliance with international law and human rights law. Otherwise, the very legitimacy of our efforts would be at stake. We encourage the Council to continue to reflect on ways to strengthen due process within the Security Council Committee pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999) and 1989 (2011) concerning Al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities. The work of the Ombudsperson has proved to be a valuable tool to increase fairness in the consideration of delisting requests. Cooperation and capacity-building are essential tools in an effective strategy to fight terrorism. Many countries have the political will to implement the pertinent resolutions of the Security Council, but lack the necessary capacity to do so. Brazil is pleased to see capacity-building as a top priority for the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre. The Counter-Terrorism Committee can also play a positive role in that regard by facilitating technical assistance to Member States. We commend the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate for its efforts in organizing workshops and seminars in different regions and call for the continuation of that practice. Brazil reiterates that there are no excuses for terrorist acts. We reaffirm our commitment to a coordinated and multidimensional response to the challenges posed by terrorism, based on a comprehensive view of this scourge. We remain convinced that cooperation and dialogue within the United Nations will enhance the tools at our disposal in the fight against this phenomenon. The Security Council has a duty not only to condemn acts of terrorism and work to prevent the spread terrorism, but also to do so coherently and universally, wherever and whenever international terrorism strikes.

I give the floor to the representative of Egypt.

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The OIC Group thanks Pakistan for its initiative in organizing this important debate. It allows us to reflect on the current approach taken by the United Nations to counter terrorism and address the challenges we all face in the fight against that global threat. The OIC Group reaffirms its full cooperation with the United Nations and the international community in that regard. We would like to thank Her Excellency the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Pakistan for presiding over the meeting and for her opening remarks. We would like also to convey the condolences of the Group to the people and the Government of Pakistan in connection with the terrorist attacks that took place in Quetta last Friday. In addition, we would like to thank the Secretary-General for his participation and for his introductory statement. At the outset, let me reiterate the position of the member States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in condemning unequivocally all acts of terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, irrespective of its motivation and objectives, and regardless of the nature of the perpetrators, be they individuals, groups or States. The OIC believes that the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy constitutes an ongoing effort. It is a living document that should be updated regularly. We reaffirm the importance of the balanced implementation of the Strategy in all its aspects, in particular concerning conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism; measures to prevent and combat terrorism; and capacity-building and respect for human rights and the rule of law while countering terrorism. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation is very much aware of the fact that terrorism is one of the most serious threats to international peace and security. The member States of the OIC have been the prime targets of terrorist acts. Despite its best intentions, the world community has yet to enhance its response in addressing this dangerous phenomenon. Applying the following principles could improve the efforts of the United Nations and its Member States to combat terrorism. First, the evolving nature of terrorism makes effective regional and international cooperation indispensable in the combat against terrorism. There is a need to improve institutional cooperation between Member States and to enhance the efforts of the United Nations in that regard. Secondly, the United Nations should stress that all terrorist acts should be combated within a single legal paradigm, so as to end the use of double standards in addressing this serious threat. Criminalizing all acts of terrorism, regardless of their motivation, should be accompanied by the pursuit of all perpetrators of terrorist acts under due process of law, be they individuals, groups or States. Criminalizing terrorist acts committed by State actors is as necessary as criminalizing acts committed by non-State actors. The United Nations should increase its efforts to combat terrorist acts committed by States and develop the necessary legal instruments to penalize State terrorism. Thirdly, there is a need to adopt a comprehensive approach in criminalizing incitement to terrorism. Security Council resolution 1624 (2005), adopted in September 2005, was an important step in that regard. Yet all forms of incitement should be criminalized and prosecuted. Indirect incitement, which may take the form of racism, xenophobia or insulting religious beliefs and symbols, is a very insidious trigger for terrorism. It can be more dangerous than direct incitement. The United Nations should effectively address the dangers posed by racism, xenophobia and offences against religion, as such acts constitute a grave incitement to terrorism. Fourthly, we cannot rely on security and legal measures alone to eradicate terrorism. The most effective way to combat terrorism is to eliminate its root causes. The international community should work collectively towards resolving existing protracted conflicts. It should recognize and fulfil the legitimate right of peoples to self- determination. The international community should also assist the efforts of all nations towards poverty eradication, equity, raising the standard of living and improving educational policies. That will undoubtedly contribute to removing the major root causes of terrorism. Furthermore, there is a need to intensify international cooperation, dialogue and understanding among cultures and civilizations to eliminate prejudice. The OIC Group notes with deep concern the instances of intolerance, discrimination, profiling, negative stereotyping, stigmatization, religious hatred and violence against Muslims, as well as the denigration of their religion and its symbols, including the Koran and the Prophet — peace be upon him — that occur in many parts of the world. Such acts contravene international human rights norms. They are against the principle of the freedom of religion. They are against the relevant General Assembly and Security Council resolutions. They have implications that may result in serious threats to international peace and security. We acknowledge and respect the importance of the freedom of expression in promoting tolerance and understanding among nations. We condone the freedom of expression that respects diversity and combats the myth of the clash of civilizations, not the one that is used to incite hatred or to target one specific religion or culture and that deepens ignorance and disregard towards the other. The OIC Group reiterates as well the need to make a clear distinction between terrorism and the exercise of the legitimate right of peoples to resist foreign occupation. That distinction is duly observed in international law, international humanitarian law, in Chapter VII, Article 51, of the Charter of the United Nations and in General Assembly resolution 46/51. Before I conclude, I would like to add a few words in my national capacity. Egypt has suffered throughout its recent history from the dangers of terrorism. We have always supported international and regional counter-terrorism efforts. Under the former regime, we resorted mainly to military and security means at the expense of other solutions. The policies that were adopted in the late 1980s and early 1990s had limited success. We came to realize the dangers of radical and extremist thinking, and therefore adopted innovative policies to address such ideologies. We embarked upon a programme that promoted teaching the true principles of Islam that are based on tolerance and moderation and that reject violence and extremism in order to review and redress radical ideologies. Al-Azhar University, the main centre of Islamic thought for centuries, increased the training of religious leaders from Egypt and other countries on combating radicalization and extremism. The teachings exposed the fallacies of extremist ideologies that claim a religious foundation. An effective response to terrorism came with the Egyptian Revolution in January 2011. It proved, in a practical way, that change can occur by peaceful means. It showed that people should not resort to terrorism to achieve political change. The fact that people may say no, stand up for their rights without violence and succeed in fulfilling their goals peacefully meant that there was no justification for terrorism. The fact that Islamic political parties that believe in democracy and resort to the ballot box can actually reach power through such means serves to expose the lies of criminal groups that claim an unfounded religious justification for their crimes. That has been one major contribution to international peace and security brought about by the Egyptian revolution. The real defeat of extremist terrorist ideologies did not occur by security means or by the force of Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. It happened in Tahrir Square with the success of the revolution in institutionalizing peaceful change.

I now give the floor to the representative of Senegal.

On behalf of Senegal, I would like to extend my country’s deepest condolences to the Pakistan Government and people following the cowardly attacks endured in Pakistan last week. We would also like to commend and express our appreciation for the Pakistani delegation’s wise and timely initiative to organize this open debate of the Security Council on the fight against international counter-terrorism, which continues to be of great concern to the international community. Without a doubt, international terrorism is a dangerous and complex phenomenon that requires a holistic approach in order to completely eradicate it, as is suggested by the topic of this debate. By reiterating our firm condemnation of terrorist acts, whatever their motivation, my country is committed to acting in a concrete and concerted way to achieve results in our common objective in the fight against that scourge. Today, this is indeed an enterprise that really does require effective and sincere international collaboration and cooperation. International terrorism includes groups that ignore borders and that benefit from information and communication technologies to plan and commit their crimes. Terrorism, without a doubt, is one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, as well as to human life and dignity. The alarming frequency of terrorist attacks, despite the numerous and untiring efforts undertaken to combat them, show that additional work is necessary within the framework of international cooperation and coordination. Our work is more necessary than ever before. That is why we support all actions that will lead to greater mobilization and closer cooperation among members of the international community to combat terrorism. In that regard, the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy, adopted in 2006, remains the most comprehensive reference framework in providing and effective response to this scourge. The Strategy reflects our commitment and willingness to act in a coherent and concerted fashion to achieve our common goal of eradicating this danger. In order for the Strategy to be completely successful, the four pillars, because of their intrinsic importance as well as their interdependence, must be implemented impartially. In the same vein, implementing the Strategy is indispensable in order to improve cooperation and to make the fight against terrorism more effective, particularly with regard to an exchange of information and experiences. What we need, therefore, is an effective global approach to terrorism that should, by definition, be based on the comprehensive and balanced implementaton of the Strategy. Likewise, by establishing a raft of obligations and measures that States Members of the United Nations must adopt to crack down on terrorist acts, resolution 1373 (2001), which established the Counter-Terrorism Committee, offers a framework of action to prevent and act effectively against terrorist acts. The visits of the Committee to various countries have provided the opportunity to review the concrete steps that States have taken to implement the resolution. As for my country, Senegal, in addition to the establishment of a centre for strategic guidance, we have undertaken enormous efforts to address the challenges posed by border control, airline security and maritime safety, among other things, not to mention the legislative reforms that we have undertaken to adapt our domestic legislation to the pertinent provisions of international law. We have also engaged in dynamic cooperation at the bilateral, subregional and international levels. In that respect, the situation currently prevailing in the Sahel, in particular in norther Mali is a source of grave concern. That crisis, largely fuelled by arms and drug trafficking, is further proof that our fight against the tragedy of extremism and terrorism is far from over. In that regard, we welcome the adoption by the Council of resolution 2085 (2012), which provides the necessary international legality and legitimacy to the action undertaken by the countries of the south-west African region, which are more than ever determined to help Mali to dismantle those terrorist groups and regain its territorial integrity. The Organization’s global approach to the fight against terrorism cannot succeed without effective coordination. In that respect, we support the Secretary- General’s proposal to appoint a United Nations counter- terrorism coordinator, which will allow the Organization not only to rationalize its counter-terrorism action, but also to strengthen its visibility and effectiveness. Furthermore, the adoption of a global convention on international terrorism would offer considerable benefits in strengthening the legal framework of our fight against the scourge. However, we recognize that the international community must be more politically resolved to overcome the differences and difficulties that impede a speedy and consensual finalization of the draft global counter-terrorism convention. In conclusion, my delegation, like others here, looks forward to enjoying a world that is free of all forms of terrorism, thanks to our joint efforts.

I now give the floor to the representative of Liechtenstein.

Liechtenstein strongly condemns all forms of terrorism and reaffirms its commitment to contributing to the fullest extent to the international fight against terrorism in all its aspects, including through cooperation with the relevant United Nations bodies. We welcome initiatives to make the United Nations counter-terrorism work more effective, and share the view that a comprehensive and holistic approach is the only way to tackle terrorism in a sustainable manner. Indeed, the 2006 United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy is based on that notion, and we agree that there is a need to implement all of its four pillars evenly. In the interest of time, I will address only a few subtopics of the Strategy in my statement today. Effective action to counter the financing of terrorism is a key tool for weakening the operational capabilities of terrorists. It is a top priority of Liechtenstein’s overall commitment to ensuring that its financial centre is not abused for any type of criminal activity. The key to success in that area is strong domestic legislation requiring all financial intermediaries to exercise due diligence, backed up by Government institutions — such as financial intelligence units — with the necessary resources and capabilities to follow up reported suspicious transactions. In its 12 years of existence, the Liechtenstein financial intelligence unit has been the backbone of our domestic effort in that regard, in cooperation with its international partners. Furthermore, the Liechtenstein unit continues to assist other countries in establishing and training their financial intelligence units, recognizing that capacity- building is key to our global effort to curb the financing of terrorism. Despite the comprehensive nature of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, police and military action is frequently at the forefront of the response to terrorism. Such action is often undertaken in extreme circumstances and on the basis of sweeping anti-terrorism legislation. Indeed, it is the duty of every State to protect its residents from indiscriminate violent attacks. At the same time, every effort must be made to ensure that a Government response to terrorism remains within the confines of applicable human rights law, as well as applicable rules of international humanitarian law. It can be difficult to determine exactly what that entails in a particular situation, especially as some applicable rules of international law are rather general in nature and require a Government’s actions to be proportional to its goals and to balance competing rights and interests. However, some practices that are currently applied systematically are clearly ruled out by international law. The United Nations should do more to highlight such violations and share best practices in that regard. Nevertheless, the main responsibility rests with individual Governments. They must ensure that the rule of law is not an afterthought to its counter-terrorism efforts, but rather its guiding light. Governments must also consider the extent to which extreme countermeasures may plant the seed of further terrorist violence or otherwise undermine the principles of rule of law and good governance. In that regard, we wish to commend the Security Council for its continued effort to strengthen fair and clear procedures for sanctions listings regarding the individuals and entities associated with Al-Qaida. The Council has come a long way in improving legal remedies for those who — rightly or wrongly — are affected by sanctions, in particular through the extensive mandate of the Ombudsperson, Ms. Kimberly Prost. Now is the time for the Council to apply the lessons of that process to other sanctions regimes, and thereby underline its commitment to the rule of law. Finally, I would be remiss if I failed to mention the need to conclude the draft comprehensive convention on international terrorism as part of our comprehensive approach. In implementing the Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy, the various intergovernmental organs, Secretariat offices and expert groups dealing with counter-terrorism efforts have been successful, mainly because they have placed results and pragmatism above ideology. Who is to say that we will not one day be able to do the same in the negotiations on that overarching legal instrument? After more than a decade of negotiations, it is time to make a last push for a pragmatic solution – or otherwise to abandon the effort.

There are still a number of speakers remaining on my list for this meeting. Given the lateness of the hour, I intend, with the concurrence of the members of the Council, to suspend the meeting until 3 p.m.