UNC supports PM’s stand against terrorism at UN Security Council
Trinidad and Tobago has agreed to sponsor the UN Security Council resolution on foreign terrorist fighters. We commend Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar, leader of the United National Congress, on taking this bold stand on behalf of Trinidad and Tobago.
Many Governments recognize the grave threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters to peace and law and order within their own borders as well as the threat to economic stability. This collaboration with the USA and other member states to combat the scourge of terrorism would no doubt be embraced by all law abiding citizens. 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.
The United National Congress is cognizant of the fact that many extremist groups use religion as a cloak, distort the principles of the religion and cause suspicion to law-abiding followers of these religions. It is therefore important that religious leaders also partner with government to ensure that the integrity of law abiding members of their faith are protected and separated from extremists and terrorists. The resolution employs evidence-based traveller 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, and even where there is concern, that dialogue takes place.
The UNC is therefore committed to partnering with all citizens to ensure that Trinidad and Tobago is safe from terrorism.
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For further information, please contact Ms. Khadijah Ameen, Chairman (Ag.) 788-3129