PM Statement on Co-sponsorship of the Foreign Terrorist Fighters UNSCR
Trinidad and Tobago has agreed to sponsor the UN Security Council resolution on foreign terrorist fighters. My Government recognizes the grave threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters to peace, law and order and is therefore pleased to collaborate with the USA and other member states to combat the scourge of terrorism.
Given our geo-political strategic location as the gateway to the Americas, this resolution is critical in the international fight against extremist ideology rooted in radical terrorism that has no regard for the sanctity of human life, peace and stability. Together, we will cut the lifeline of financial support to violent terrorist fighters whose complex, international network warrants this cohesive response within the existing framework of respect for human rights and the promotion of political and religious tolerance.
Technology and the use of internet for the purpose of mobilizing and recruiting support in different forms highlight the urgent need for international cooperation to prevent terrorists from exploiting such technological advancements for radical extremism that is rooted in violent, deadly and subversive acts of terrorism.
The resolution employs evidence-based traveler risk assessment designed to monitor and detect the movement of terrorists and their supporters without resorting to profiling contrary to laws against discrimination.It specifically targets terrorists and their support base who use deadly force to inflict maximum damage and harm on innocent, peaceful law-abiding citizens. People who do not fall into this category have no cause for concern.
Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC
Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago
September 24, 2014