That Sam Somewhere. Now you don't have to. Here's.


Good afternoon, colleagues, and I declare open this meeting of the sixth committee. This is the fourth meeting during the 80th session of the sixth committee and we will continue with our debate on agenda item 109 entitled Measures to Eliminate International International Terrorism. I recall that the report of the Secretary General on this item is contained in document A80,177 that is available on the website of the Sixth Committee. As usual, we will continue with our list of speakers which we have from this morning. And the first speaker for this afternoon session on my list is Bahrain. So the distinguished representative of Bahrain has the floor, please.


Mr. Chair, at the outset it is my pleasure to congratulate you and the members of the Bureau on your election to chair the sixth committee in the 88th session. We express the Kingdom of Bahrain's full confidence that your unique expertise will contribute to the to the success of this committee's work. We would like to join the statement delivered by the fraternal Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the statement delivered by the Republic of Iran on behalf of the non aligned movement. Mr. Chair, terrorism represents a great challenge to international peace and security as it causes great human and material casualties. It also destabilizes security, stability and development. These threats are further exacerbated by the transnational nature of terrorist acts and ideologies, especially with the development of the cyberspace in all its dimensions. This makes it incumbent upon the international community to redouble its collective efforts to address it effectively and firmly. Being deeply aware of this reality, the Kingdom of Bahrain reaffirms its strong commitment to combating terrorism and extremism in all their forms and manifestations as well as their sources of financing. As this is a global challenge that requires comprehensive global solidarity, Bahrain continues to enhance its national and international efforts to eradicate the scourge, which reflects our responsible role at the regional and international level. Last month, the Kingdom of Bahrain launched the National Strategy to Combat Money Laundering, Terrorism Financing and Weapons Proliferation for the period 2025 to 2027, which is an extension of prior joint national and regional efforts in plans. The strategy represents a comprehensive framework that combines legal, security and oversight measures, emphasizing an approach of prevention, transparency and international commitment. Specialized national bodies are committed to implementing the strategy to improve compliance and guarantee the integrity of the financial system. This also reflects how seriously the Kingdom takes upholding its international commitments and elevating its status as a prestigious financial and banking hub and a leading example in combating financial crimes and terrorism. Bahrain has also developed its legislative and institutional system as we have modernized our laws related to combating terrorism, combating money laundering, and combating the financing of terrorism in line with the international standard determined by the Financial Action Task Force. Due to our belief that the transnational nature of terrorist threats requires enhanced international cooperation and partnership among different stakeholders, we engaged effectively in numerous international counterterrorism alliances, such as the International Coalition against isis, the Military Islamic Counterterrorism Coalition and the Terrorist Financing Targeting center and others. Bahrain also plays a leading role as a founding member of the MENA Region Financial Action Task Force. We are also the host country of the Task Force's Secretariat. This is a reflection of our commitment to support regional international efforts to combat terrorism and eliminate its sources of financing. Mr. Chair, we recognize the importance of intellectually and culturally addressing the root causes of extremism. Therefore, the Kingdom of Bahrain reaffirms its commitment to enhancing a culture of peace, tolerance, coexistence and dialogue among religions and cultures. This comes in total harmony with the Declaration of the Kingdom of Bahrain, which was adopted in the framework of the Arab Summit held in the Kingdom of Bahrain last year. This reflects the Arab consensus along supporting the values of openness and mutual respect. In this context, the Kingdom of Bahrain has invested in building national cadres worthy of pride experienced in the mechanisms of preventing and combating ideological extremism. As a result, we are building bridges of cooperation, such as the Continuous Project for Strategic Communication as part of the International Coalition against isis. And we have renewed, through the statement given by the Minister of Foreign affairs in the general debate of the General assembly in the current session, our call for the adoption of an international convention against racism and religious hate speech and also against the misuse of digital platforms to incite racism and extremism and terrorism. This initiative emphasizes our conviction that combating terrorism cannot be exclusively a matter of security confrontation, but must expand in school to include the protection of human intellect and the values of peaceful coexistence. In conclusion, Bahrain reaffirms its staunch commitment to combating international terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and emphasizes the importance it gives to deepening international cooperation to ensure international peace and security. We also look forward to continuing to work constructively with the UN and its member states to ensure sustainable security and stability. Thank you.


I will now give the floor to our distinguished colleague from Iraq.


Thank you. Mr. Chair. On behalf of my delegation, I would like to congratulate you. I would like to congratulate the Chair and the Vice Chairs on their election to chair the work of the sixth committee in the General assembly in its 80th session. We wish them every success in their task, and we emphasize that they will have our full support. Terrorism is a serious threat that must be addressed without any hesitation. It is not a threat that targets one country alone. It targets everyone without exception, as it is a transnational threat that carries ideas that are very destructive of the principles of peace and stability and coexistence and tolerance that the international community aspires to apply. These values are also adopted in the UN Charter. We have fought terrorism with everything we have and with all the resources we have through the efforts and the sacrifices of the sons and daughters of Iraq who have spared no effort and no sacrifice in this path. We have also received assistance from our friends and allies in the international community. We have been the battleground against terrorist groups and we have supported the world in attacking them. However, combating terrorism does not stop at its defeat at the military level. We must have reformist approaches that spread ideals that run counter to the ideologies of terrorism. And this is the approach that was adopted by Iraq and its institutions concerned with societal rehabilitation, by providing rehabilitation centers for the families of terrorists and those associated with terrorists so that these people can be intellectually prepared to be reintegrated into society once more, and so that these people can be rid of the radical ideas that they've come to adopt. We have tried to find new ideas to address this matter, the last of which was holding an international conference on the margins of the general debate at the General assembly during the High Level week at the 80th session under the title the International Conference on Al Hol. There is a camp in Syria that includes thousands of families related to the terrorist organization isil. They include people from different nationalities, including Iraqi and Syrian people and foreigners from over 40 countries. People from this camp are being returned by Iraq to their homelands. And in the meantime, we are also encouraging different countries to reclaim their nationals from this camp in preparation for its full closure. This is because it represents a grave threat to international peace and security in the region as a tool that might recreate extremism and terrorism. This requires firm and urgent international action to put an end to this matter. Mr. Chair, one of the most difficult to bear circumstances of terrorist operations is those who fall victim. Therefore, we are cognizant of the importance of rehabilitating victims and reintegrating them into society through studied mechanisms. And here in New York, we jointly with Spain, lead a group of friends of Terrorism, of victims of terrorism which addresses the best means of providing support for these victims. Combating terrorism at the international level urgently needs a legal framework that comprehensively deals with this matter. Therefore, we call upon the international community to overcome divergences and move forward with the measures of drafting a comprehensive international convention on counterterrorism whereby we can have clear mechanisms for combating terrorism and its criminalization in order to achieve real joint progress in combating terrorism and eliminating it and holding the perpetrators accountable, in addition to having a firm legal framework to prevent the financing of terrorism. Without such resources, terrorism will not be able to continue and carry out operations. It's important to have clear bases for cooperation and collaboration in the international community in order to prosecute terrorists as quickly as possible to eliminate the impunity that terrorist groups keep seeking in order to shirk accountability. In conclusion, the Republic of Iraq would like to renew its commitment to collaborating with the international community to combat terrorism. Combating terrorism enhances international peace and security Bearing in mind the Secretary General's report entitled Measures to Eliminate International Terrorism provided under this agenda item in the document A80,177 thank you.


Thank you very much for your statement and I now call on the representative of Azerbaijan. Please, you have the floor. Thank you.


Mr. Chair, at the outset I would like to congratulate you and the other members of the Bureau on your election. Azerbaijan is strongly committed to an active partner in global counterterrorism efforts and attaches great importance to promoting international cooperation. To that end, among other efforts and initiatives, Azerbaijan launched the annual Baku security forum in 2023, bringing together representatives of intelligence and security agencies from various countries to discuss issues of common interest and concern, in particular, interagency collaboration in the field of counter terrorism. The third forum that took place last month with the participation of high level representatives from nearly 90 countries focused on international cooperation in the prevention of humanitarian crisis and human induced disasters during terrorist acts and armed conflicts.


Mr.


Chair, Azerbaijan has been a target of the externally orchestrated terrorism for years, while parts of its territory, when under occupation, served as a gray zone for the presence and activities of infiltrated terrorist, mercenary and other armed groups, as well as for illicit trade, uncontrolled arms and resource exploitation. In its written submission to the Report of the Secretary General, prepared pursuant to paragraph 8 of General Assembly Resolution 50, 53 and paragraph 23 of General Assembly Resolution 79 129, Azerbaijan provided an updated information on the implementation of paragraphs 10 AB of the Declaration on Measures to Eliminate International Terrorism annexed to General assembly resolution 49 60, accountability for serious offenses, including terrorism, is imperative and must be inevitable. It is also an essential tool to prevent recurrence of violations and an indispensable constituent on the path to genuine reconciliation and to the adoption of a longer term approach that looks toward shaping a more peaceful, just and inclusive future. In this vein, it is important not to grant amnesty or any other form of early release to to the perpetrators of terrorist acts. Equally, the instances of shielding and glorification of terrorists cannot be tolerated. Overall, strict compliance by all states with their international counterterrorism obligations is critical to ensure that their respective territories are not used for terrorist and related extensions activities. Furthermore, strengthening national and international legal frameworks is essential to detect, disrupt and interdict all forms of financial support for terrorism and violent extremism. This includes the prevention of radical ethnic diaspora communities from raising funds and other material means to finance terrorist and related criminal conduct under the COVID of non governmental, non profit and charitable status. It is also essential to address the root causes of radicalization such as hate driven extremism, as well as to invest in education for peace and fostering dialogue, particularly among youth. As many delegations have emphasized, counterterrorism efforts cannot and should not target any religion or culture. This principle must be part and parcel of any counterterrorism strategy. Furthermore, continued solidarity with and support for victims and survivors of terrorism must remain humanitarian and human rights imperative. Mr. Chair, Azerbaijan will continue its efforts to combat international terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Prosecute offenders contribute to developing the normative framework and promote international cooperation. I thank you.


And I thank you for your statement. And the next speaker on my list would be the distinguished colleague from Niger.


Monsieur le President. President, allow me to begin you on congratulating you on your election to the helm of the Sixth Committee. And I congratulate the other members of the Bureau and I assure you of the full cooperation of my delegation as you go about your work. We endorse a statement delivered by Cameroon on behalf of the African Group, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on behalf of an organization and we endorse the statement of the Non Aligned Movement and we add the following remarks in national capacity. We thank the SG for his report in the relevant document on measures to eliminate international Terrorism which takes on board measures taken by States and other national and international elements aiming to stop international terrorism and incidents carried out due to that scourge. This document contains the contributions of many member states and observers. It is an invaluable input to our work on this aspect. Niger reiterates its strongest possible condemnation of terrorism in all of its forms and manifestations, whatever the origin may be. My country remains resolved to combat all of the causes that fuel the spread of terrorism, and we will oppose this scourge in all its dimensions. We reaffirm that combating terrorism must in no case be used as a tool of political agendas or dark causes which seek to undermine or pillage states. We remain, therefore, deeply committed to the respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity and the principle of non intervention when terrorism is being combated. This combat must be done in stringent compliance with the principles of the UN charters, especially the principle of multilateralism and non interference into the domestic affairs of states. Mr. Chair, Niger is particularly concerned by the support that some countries have demonstrated through the support to through terrorist groups, through financing, equipment and other forms of assistance. Our country has banded together with Mali and Burkina Faso to cooperate in the alliance of Sahel States. Our efforts are shown by the pooling of our operations against terrorism and transnational organized crime. This is a strategic defense and development framework. It dates back to several years ago and it seeks to establish an architecture for collective defense and mutual defense among the member states. This charter of our organization commits the Sinai countries to fight effectively against terrorism in all of its forms and to fight organized crime as well. And to seek to this architecture, financing is permanent and it has capitalized on successes already achieved while building our capacity for resilience. Faced with an existential threat, the result of this coordinated threat has been clear. Several rear bases of the terrace have been destroyed and weapons and munitions have been recovered. And financial resources have been cut off and material resources as well. And terrorists are now backing away. And we have carried out targeted attacks of certain terrorist leaders. Rather, we are destabilizing the chain of command of the terrorists and this shows the effectiveness of our collective security approach. Mr. Chair, turning now to the national level, Niger has started an integrated, multidimensional response to fight this global scourge. Our efforts include stepping up our legislative and institutional arsenal with a order that was signed in 2024, which aims at terrorists or groups involved in terrorist attacks or in any other infraction that could infringe on the strategic interests of the state or that could undermine the tranquility and the security of our state. Furthermore, aware that the response to terrorism cannot be only military, Niger has set up ambitious programs to prevent violent extremism which target young people through education policies and through employment opportunities and social integration. This approach seeks to fight corruption and the siphoning off of funds too. It's important to recall the adoption in 2021 of 2101 of the Security Council, which says that there's a link between education, peace and security. This resolution was sponsored by the Republic of Niger. It firmly condemns attacks against educational personnel and calls for the right to education to be upheld in times of conflict, putting particular emphasis on women and vulnerable girls and boys. This shows our country's approach toward an integrated way of proceeding to fight violent extremism. Mr. Chair, I would also like to mention the growing threat of the use of new technology, especially drones, by terrorists, which has been underscored before in terms of unmanned aerial vehicles. Drones in the wrong hands can be turned into deadly weapons. This can allow for planning and attacking civilians in critical infrastructure. It's an established fact that non state actors have systematically resorted to these weapons for reconnaissance and very lethal attacks. They've done this not without external assistance. This is why we draw the attention of states that supporting and in any form that it might take of terrorists that use this technology is unacceptable. And this makes them complicit in the atrocities the terrorists commit. The world community must step up its cooperation to stem the proliferation of this technology and be fully responsible for entities that have spurred the development of this threat. Chair, Given the cross border nature of the threat, solidarity and a cross border approach is needed. So Niger calls for good faith cooperation and we call for technical and financial assistance for the countries that are most affected. With that in mind, we fully support the global counterterrorism strategy of the United nations, reiterating our support to the work of the Counterterrorism Office. And by way of conclusion, it is only through collective action grounded in shared responsibility and respect for international law, that we will succeed in being able to hope that we will check this scourge which undermines the very basis of humanity. Thank you.


I thank the representative of Niger for the statement and also for very good timing. And a statement by Niger will be followed now by the statement of the representative of Ukraine. Please have the floor. You have the floor.


Mr. Chair. As this is the first time I've taken the floor in this room, I would like to congratulate you for being elected and assure you of Ukraine's full support. I would also like to inform that Ukraine aligned with the statement of the European Union and would like to make these remarks on our national capacity. Terrorism continues to represent one of the most acute challenges to international peace and security.


Security.


It disregards national borders, endangers civilians in every region and erodes the very principles upon which the United nations was built. Terrorist Groups and those who harbor or sponsor them are constantly adopting their tactics, seeking to spread fear and instability. Even more alarming is the fact that some states have incorporated terrorism into their policies and practices. Ukraine remains firmly committed to the United Nations Global Counterterrorism Strategy, which among other things, underscores respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, emphasizes the need to address conditions conductive to the spread of terrorism, and calls for enhanced capacity building in counterterrorism efforts. For more than a decade, Ukraine has faced hybrid warfare in which terrorism sponsored and directed by state has played a central role. Russian aggression against my country began with the illegal occupation of Crimea and parts of Donetsk and luhansk regions in 2014. Since then, we have witnessed numbers of acts of terror, including the drowning of Malaysia Airlines flight MA17, which claimed the lives of 298 innocent people. This crime was not an isolated incident, but part of systematic pattern of State supported violence. With the full scale invasion launched on 24th of February 2022, Russia turned terror into one of its main instruments of war. Ukrainian cities and towns have been subjected to relentless barrages of missiles, drones and artillery deliberately aimed at civilian infrastructure, energy facilities, schools and hospitals. Millions of Ukrainians have been displaced, thousands killed and injured and entire communities left in ruins. These are not accidents of war. They are calculated acts of terror designed to break the will of of our people. Equally dangerous is Russia's reckless behavior at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the largest in Europe. Its militarization, coupled with intimidation of staff and repeated shelling of the surrounding area, poses a risk of nuclear disaster that would have catastrophic consequences far beyond Ukraine's borders. Such actions are nothing less than nuclear terrorism. The use of private military companies such as Wagner Group, active both in Ukraine and in other parts of the world, illustrates another dimension of the State sponsored terror. The outsourcing of atrocities to proxies whose activities destabilize entire regions. Mr. Chair, the international community must not turn the blind eye to these realities. Acts of terrorism cannot be tolerated, regardless of whether they are committed by non state actors or orchestrated by a state. Accountability is essential. Ukraine welcomes steps already taken by partners to recognize Russia as the State sponsor of terrorism and calls on all member States to respond with queer condemnation and decisive measures. Let me conclude by confirming Ukraine's determination to contribute actively to international cooperation against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We will continue to share our experience, strengthen partnerships and uphold the principles of the United Nations Charter. I thank you.


And I thank you for the statement and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mongolia and I understand is the permanent representative of Mongolia.


To deliver the statement.


So, Ambassador, please do have the floor.


Chair, thank you. Allow me to congratulate you and all other members of the bru and I pledge my delegation's full support and cooperation to you. Mongolia commends the continued efforts of the United nations system to strengthen global cooperation in eliminating terrorism in its all form, forms and manifestation and retreat its unequal condemnation of terrorism as criminal, unjustifiable and contrary to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. Emphasizing that no political, ideological or religious cause can ever justify acts that deliberately target civilians or seek to destabilize legitimate institutions, Mongolia has established comprehensive legal basis to counterterrorism and related crimes. The Law on Combating terrorism, enacted in 2004, amended in 2019, and the law on Combating Money Laundering and Terrorism financing enacted in 2013, revised in 2023, provided the legal foundation for preventive and investigative and prosecutorial measures consistent with our international obligations. A National Counterterrorism Coordination Council, chaired by the Director General of the General Intelligence Agency of Mongolia ensures whole of government coordination among law enforcement, intelligence, financial and judicial authorities. Mongolia's approach emphasizes private prevention, protection and preparedness while upholding human rights and rule of law. We reaffirm that all counterterrorism measures must comply with the international law, including international human rights law, refugee law and international humanitarian law. The evolving landscape of terrorism presents new challenges including the misuse of terror, digital technologies, online radicalization, cryptocurrency based financing and cyber enabled recruitment networks. We support efforts to strengthen international cooperation in cybersecurity, digital evidence collection and cross border information sharing in line with the human rights safeguards. We recognize that terrorism cannot be eliminated by security measures alone. Sustainable prevention requires addressing root causes such as poverty, social exclusion and lack of opportunity, particularly for youth and marginalized communities. Mongolia supports integrated approaches linking education, development and inclusion as long term bulwarks against extremism. In this regard, as a developing and landlocked country country, we attach importance to the promotion of inclusive and effective international tax cooperation in UN system, including the ongoing intergovernmental negotiation on the Framework Agreement and its early protocols. Ensuring fair and transparent global tax systems can help curb illicit financial flows and prevent the the misuse of economic resources for terrorist financing and foster equitable development that strengthens resilience against extremism and instability. We also attach the importance to finalizing the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. In this regard, we note that the General assembly resolution 79129 which recommended recommended that at 8th session, the 6th committee establish a working group with a view finalizing the process on the Comprehensive Convention. We support this renewed momentum and call on all Member States to demonstrate flexibility and political will to bridge remaining differences in order to complete the international legal framework against terrorism. We also look forward to the ninth review of the UN Global Counterterrorism Strategy, which is very important platform for member States, including small landlocked developing countries, to share perspectives and contribute to collective resilience. Mr. Chair, terrorism knows no borders, nationality or religion. It is elimination, demands, unity of proposed adherence to law and commitment to justice for Mongolia, a peace loving democracy situated at the crossroads of Asia. The fight against terrorism is inseparable from our belief in the rule of law, multilateralism and respect for human rights. Let us reaffirm our collective resolve to eradicate terrorism in all its forms and manifestation, not through fear or force alone, but through cooperation, fairness and share with humanity as envisioned in the Charter of the United Nations. I thank you.


Thank you, Ambassador. And I will now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Lebanon.


Mr. Chairman, distinguished colleagues. Allow me through you to congratulate the Chair on his election, to guide the work of this Committee and to congratulate the other members of the Bureau. You can count on my delegation's full cooperation and support. I also thank the Codification Division of the Office of Legal affairs for its valuable contribution to our deliberations. Lebanon aligns itself with with the statements delivered on behalf of the Non Aligned Movement and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Mr. Chair, terrorism remains one of the most severe threats to international peace and security. It spares no region, no society and no people. Lebanon has long condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Without exception and without distinction. Our position is rooted both in principle and in experience. Over the years, Lebanon has stood at the forefront of the fight against terrorism. The Lebanese armed forces and security institutions continue to confront ISIS and other terrorist.


Group groups across the country, conducting ongoing.


Operations to dismantle networks, neutralize threats and protect civilians. Many Lebanese soldiers and officers sacrificed their lives to rid our territory of violent extremism and to safeguard our society. This commitment remains unwavering. For example, in one of the latest cases, in June 2025, following precise surveillance and intelligence operations, the Lebanese Army Intelligence Directorate arrested one of the most prominent leaders of ISIS who had assumed command in Lebanon after his predecessor's arrest. A large cache of weapons, ammunition, electronic equipment and materials used for drone manufacture was seized. The detainee was handed over to judicial authorities for for investigation. This operation reflects Lebanon's continued vigilance, professionalism, and determination to safeguard national and regional stability. These national efforts are complemented by close cooperation with regional partners. Earlier this year, Lebanon participated in the meeting of Syria and neighboring states in and Amman in March 2025, alongside Jordan, Turkey, Syria and Iraq. The meeting reaffirmed joint condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and emphasized combating it militarily and ideologically, including through the establishment of a joint coordination and operation center to confront ISIS and similar groups. However, terrorism is not limited to violent extremist groups. It can also take the form of state violence that targets civilians, instills fear, and seeks to subjugate an entire nation. Even after the cessation of hostilities with Israel on November 2024, acts of terror against Lebanese civilians have persisted. Israel continues to carry out operations that violate basic rules and principles of international law. These actions, from airstrikes on residential areas and civilian infrastructure to forced displacement of families, mirror the very tactics of terror. Just yesterday, a drone strike hit a vehicle in southern Lebanon, killing two people and critically wounding a third, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. In another tragic incident two weeks ago, an Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon killed five members of a single family, including three children. These acts inflict deep human suffering and leave lasting scars on communities. As confirmed by the United Nations Human Rights Act Office, Israeli strikes have killed more than 100 civilians in Lebanon since the ceasefire and displaced tens of Thousands more. The UN Human Commissioner for Human Rights.


Mr. Volker Turk, has denounced these acts.


As tragic and unacceptable, calling for their immediate end, noting that hundreds of schools have health facilities and places of worship remain unsafe, leaving communities unable to build their lives. These operations, often justified under the false.


Pretext of self defense or counterterrorism, are.


In reality clear violations and breaches of the UN Charter, international human rights law, and international humanitarian law. They inflict fear, suffering and instability, the very hallmarks of terrorism. Mr. Chair Terrorism manifests when violence is wielded to instill fear, target civilians, and attempt to destroy a society's morale. Lebanon has experienced this profoundly. Yet our people remain resilient. Our strength lies in our commitment to justice, law, and human dignity. Lebanon reiterates the urgent need to finalize.


The Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.


A clear, universal definition of terrorism is.


Essential to ensure accountability, close legal loopholes.


And prevent misuse of the term to justify foreign occupation, aggression, or violations of sovereignty. To eliminate terrorism, we must also address its root causes. Unresolved conflicts, foreign occupation, inequality and political exclusion create fertile ground for violence Combating terrorism is therefore not only about responding.


To attacks, but also about preventing them.


Through justice, through stability and sustainable development. Lebanon continues to strengthen its national strategies with the Lebanese army and security institutions at the forefront, supported by the UN and international partners. We remain committed to international cooperation, capacity.


Building and the fight against the financing of terrorism.


Mr. Chair, Lebanon speaks today not only as a victim, but as a witness to.


The resilience of a people who refuse to be broken by terror.


No act of terrorism by any actor will extinguish our determination to live in peace, dignity and sovereignty. We call on all Member States to uphold justice, hold violators accountable and ensure that terrorism finds no justification, no sanctuary and no place in our shared Future. Thank you, Mr.


Chair.


I thank the representative of Lebanon for the statement and now I will give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia. Please, you have the floor.


Mr. Chair. Malaysia expresses its alignment with the statements presented by the Non Aligned Movement, Organization of Islamic Cooperation and asean. Additionally, we would like to take this opportunity to deliver statement to in our national capacity, Malaysia stands in solidarity with other delegations in unequivocally condemning all acts, methods and manifestations of terrorism, irrespective of their underlying motivations, be it political, ideological or otherwise. Terrorism has no place in any society as it causes immense suffering to innocent life and undermines peace, stability and security on a global scale. Terrorism continues to pose a direct threat to the territorial integrity and stability of nations, having far reaching implications for national, regional and international security. Malaysia reiterates its long standing position and has undertaken concrete measures to combat terrorism across all levels. At the national level, MERCIA established the Southeast Asia Regional center for Counterterrorism SAR CCT in 2003, focusing on capacity building and fostering international cooperation. In 2025, SAR CCT successfully conducted key programs such as the Aviation Security Workshop, Counterterrorism Financial Investigation Course and National Town hall on National Security and Unity. This initiative reflects SAR CCT's holistic approach, addressing issues ranging from terrorism financing to prevention and rehabilitation. At the regional level, MESHER is a state party to the Asian Convention on Counterterrorism acct. We recognize the importance of international cooperation and particularly through mutual legal assistance agreements. The Asian Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty remains an essential mechanism for cross border counterterrorism efforts. Malaysia is also an active participant in the Southeast Asia Justice Network, an informal platform that facilitates communication and coordination between central authorities on MLA in criminal matters, including those related to counterterrorism. Furthermore, Malaysia contributes actively to the Asian Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime, where counterterrorism remains a priority agenda and continues to promote information sharing and capacity building within asean. At the international level, Malaysia remains committed to the global counterterrorism framework As a state party to 13 United nations sectoral conventions and protocols on terrorism, Malaysia has taken continuous steps to comply with obligations under relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, including resolutions 1, 2, 67 and 13 73. Measures include legislative amendments to the Anti Money Laundering and Anti Terrorism Financing Act 2001 and the Penal Code allowing for the freezing of assets linked to terrorism. Malaysia is currently undergoing a mutual evaluation exercise from April 2024 to December 2025 to assess its compliance with international state standards set by the Financial Action Task Force FedF. Malaysia remains fully committed to this process as it enhances our anti money laundering and counterterrorism financing regime, ensuring that our financial systems are safeguarded against abuse by terrorists and criminals. We note positively that Malaysia has already received upgraded ratings in key Fed recommendations, including on targeted financial sanctions, reflecting our progress in strengthening compliance and effectiveness. Malaysia supports the recommendation adopted by the General assembly at its 79th session for this Committee to establish a working group aimed at finalizing the draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. We also welcome discussions on convening a high level conference under the auspices of the United nations to further this agenda. In Malaysia's view, the early conclusion of the CCIT will address critical gaps in the international legal framework by establishing a universally accepted definition of terrorism, ensuring that no safe havens exist for terrorists, and reinforcing the principle that terrorism in all its form and manifestations is unjustifiable. Thank you.


Thank you very much, Malaysia. And the next speaker on my list is Ecuador. You have the floor, please.


Gracias, Senor Presidente.


Thank you, Chairman. I congratulate you upon your appointment to head up the work of the Sixth Committee during this session. And the same goes for the other members of the Bureau. We wish you every success in your roles, Chairman. Ecuador unequivocally condemns all acts of terrorism in all of their forms of manifestations and regardless of their purpose or their perpetrators. This phenomenon, that is an attack on international peace and security, is increasingly linked to another global transnational organized crime. The evidence shows that terrorist groups and criminal networks come together on multiple fronts. On a financial level, terrorist organizations obtain resources through the illicit activities of organized crime, such as drug trafficking, the trafficking of arms, illegal mining, the trafficking of persons or contraband. On an operational front, criminal organizations adopt terrorist tactics such as the use of indiscriminate violence, attacks with explosives or kidnappings, and the goal is to control territories, to intimidate the authorities and to protect their illicit trade routes. Similarly, terrorist groups benefit from the networks of mobility and contraband established by criminal organizations in order to transport combatants, equipment, material and resources across borders. On a structural level, both threats erode the pillars of the rule of law and governability. The way organized crime is infiltrating institutions facilitated by corruption and money laundering, is creating fertile grounds for terrorism to expand. Terrorist violence in turn generates political and social instability, creating a space for criminal actors to consolidate their economic and territorial power. The overlap between terrorism and transnational organised crime has been recognised by the international community. The UN Global Counterterrorism Strategy and Resolution 2482 of the Security Council highlight the need to address these links in a comprehensive manner. Ecuador has experienced this reality firsthand. Our geographical location places us on the front line of an existential war against narco terrorism. In response to this, Ecuador has declared a non international armed conflict and has adopted measures to prevent, repress and prosecute terrorism that include the creation of technical instruments of criminal policy against organized crime and terrorism. We have broadened the participation of our armed forces in task supporting security efforts and have adopted legal reforms to punish more effectively this crime. Chairman, no state can deal with these threats alone. The transnational nature of these networks requires global coordination, multilateral agreements and technical and financial assistance. In this regard, my country is interested in the creation of a working group to deliver the draft General Convention on International Terrorism as well as the convening of a high level conference to enable us to close ranks around a universal legal framework. Finally, I underscore that security measures are essential. However, they are not sufficient alone. Eliminating the root causes of violent extremism and organized crime, which are poverty, exclusion and structural inequalities, is essential in order to consolidate sustainable security and lasting peace. Thank you very much. Gracias. Porculo Claracio. Thank you for your statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Cuba. Thank you very much, Chairman. First of all, I wish to congratulate you and the members of the Bureau upon your election. We can assure you of Cuba's full support and cooperation during this 80th session of the sixth committee. My delegation aligns itself with the statement made by the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of the Non Aligned Movement as well as the statement made by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends. In defence of the UN Charter and in our national capacity, we wish to make the following comments. We strongly condemn the unilateral acts by certain states who think that they have the right to certify conduct and make politically motivated lists that are against international law. While these acts undermine the central authority of the General assembly and in counterterrorism. CHAIRMAN Just for defending its independent sovereignty and dignity, Cuba for decades has suffered the consequences of terrorist acts. With a death toll of 3,478 and 2,099 people left maimed. The vast majority of these actions have been organized, financed or perpetrated from the territory of the United States States by people who reside here or have resided here, the majority of whom have benefited from protection and even complicity from the United States Government. It's therefore a paradox and also incomprehensible that the current US administration made a decision this January to put Cuba back on this spurious list that their predecessor had removed us from just a few days before. This is a clear expression of the aggressiveness and imperialism of the United States against the sovereignty, peace and well being of the Cuban people. This designation reflects an absolute disregard for the truth. These types of unilateral certifications undermine genuine efforts made by the international community to fight against terrorism. Far from contributing to international cooperation, they are used to strengthen measures of economic coercion. Cuba remaining on this list is causing extraordinarily negative consequences for the economy of my country, given their intimidatory effects and since they are a real stumbling block to economic and financial operations of third countries. Once again, we demand that Cuba be removed from this list whose effects are strengthening the economic, trade and financial embargo against Cuba. The call for the US government to correct this injustice is a loud and repeated one, not only coming from the Cuban people, but also coming from many governments, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean, but also from political organizations as well as social and religious organizations within the US themselves and even several politicians from this country. Recently, during the general debate of the 80th session of the UN General assembly that just took place, 19 delegations also joined this appeal. The spurious list of state sponsors of terrorism is the best example of the inscrupulous use of such a sensitive issue for the international community as terrorism being used for merely political purposes. CHAIRMAN Precisely today we are commemorating the 50th anniversary of the explosion in mid flight of a Cubanadin Abiacion aircraft off the coast of Barbados, killing 73 people. And the Cuban people are still angry that justice has still not been served for the victims of this horrendous crime. We also remember and condemn the terrorist attacks against our embassy in Paris on 28 July 2021, which was the result of a brutal campaign of incitation of hatred, violence and the carrying out of hostile acts with complete impunity on social media and digital platforms from the territory of the usa, which is a flagrant, open violation of the norms of international law in the UN Charter. We repeat our condemnation of the terrorist attacks that occurred in 2020 against the facilities of the Cuban Embassy in the United States when an individual shot 32 projectiles from a semiautomatic rifle against our diplomatic headquarters and in 2023 when an individual threw from the pavement the sidewalk two Molotov cocktails against the perimeter of the facility. The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations establishes a special obligation for the United States as host country to adopt all measures required to protect diplomatic premises against any intrusion or harm and avoiding disturbing the tranquility and the peace of the mission or any attack against its dignity. Similarly, the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Internationally Protected Persons, Including Diplomatic Agent agents, stipulates that this type of crime be punished with adequate sentences that take account of the grave nature of them. Chairman, Cuba believes that the harmful practice of certain States financing, supporting or promoting subversive acts of regime change, as well as messages of intolerance and hatred against peoples, cultures or political systems by way of employing modern and ICTs and the political and communicational campaign of the US against Cuba is a violation of the principles of UN Charter and of international law. We reiterate the value of the UN Global Counterterrorism Strategy and the responsibility of States to apply it in transparency. The design of the policy against Cuba by the United States violates the strategy and its plan of action. That's why we support multilateral efforts to consolidate the central role of the General assembly in the application of the above mentioned strategy and the implementation of it. Lastly, we reiterate our support for the adoption of a General Convention on International Terrorism that bridges existing legal gaps loopholes when it comes to the definition of terrorism, which is essential in order to cover the lacking some emissions in the current legal framework. Thank you very much. Thank you very much, sir. To our colleague, the representative of Afghanistan, to deliver his statement.


Thank you, Mr. Chair. Afghanistan aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representative of Non Alignment Movement and Organization of Islamic Cooperation and wishes to make the following remarks. In its national capacity, Afghanistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations where and by whomever committed terrorism recognizes no borders, no fate and no justification. Mr. Chair, for decades the Afghan people have paid the highest price for the actions of terrorist extremist groups and their enablers and supporters. These groups and their affiliates, including the Taliban, have turned our homeland into a battlefield for global terror networks. They have bombed schools, targeted mosques and hospitals and forced millions into exile. They have taken the lives of thousands of civilians and left millions of households orphaned, widowed or disabled. The 36th report of the Security Council monitoring team confirms that Afghanistan remains a keynote in the global terrorist landscape. The Taliban continue to provide safe haven to groups such as Al Qaeda, TTP and foreign terrorist fighters, maintaining fighters and training sites across several provinces and threatening the wider region. Under the Taliban rule, Afghanistan has witnessed a sharp rise in in jihadi madrasas over 21,000 established since 2021. These institutions often promote militant ideologies while marginalizing secular education. This alarming trend risks radicalizing Afghan youth and deepening the country's educational and social crisis. The absence of accountable, legitimate and inclusive government governance in Afghanistan has created a dangerous security vacuum. Effective counterterrorism requires a credible and legitimate government committed to its international obligations, particularly UN Security Council resolutions 1267, 1373 and 2615. Mr. Chair, Taliban's actions have dismantled Afghanistan's national security institutions and reversed decades of progress in counterterrorism, cooperation and the rule of law. Their persecution of former security personnel, journalists and civil society, especially their systemic repression of women and girls, undermines stability and fuels radicalization. We welcome international initiatives aimed at promoting accountability, including efforts under CEDAW and the International Court of Justice to hold the Taliban responsible for gender based persecution. We also support the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant for the Taliban leaders on charges related to gender based crimes and crimes against humanity.


These are important steps towards ending impunity.


Mr. Chair, we welcome General assembly resolution 79 129, reaffirming the UN global counterterrorism strategy and emphasizing respect for international law, including human rights and humanitarian principles. Afghanistan calls for intensified engagement with credible Afghan representatives, experts and civil society actors who continue to work for a peaceful and democratic future. Rebuilding institutions, empowering communities and ensuring the participation of women and youth are essential to countering radicalization and preventing terrorism. We also call for stronger regional cooperation. Terrorism is a transnational threat that cannot be tackled in isolation. Counterterrorism must be genuine and non selective. Terrorism knows no borders and threatens all of humanity. Mr. Chair, Afghanistan supports the finalization of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. We also underscore the importance of recognizing and supporting victims of terrorism. Mr. Chair Afghanistan's experience shows that repression breeds extremism. Counterterrorism cannot succeed where Terrorism is tolerated as a tool of governance or where women are silenced and education denied. The people of Afghanistan, especially its women and youth, are both the first victim and the first line of defense against extremism. The international community must therefore one, reinforce counterterrorism efforts, including targeted sanctions against all terrorist entities and their supporters 2 prevent the use of Afghan territory by any group to threaten the Afghan people or others and third, support Afghan voices advocating pluralism, democratic values, human rights and education. The most effective as the most effective antidote to violent extremism. Mr. Chair, terrorism in Afghanistan is not a local crisis. It is a global warning. The world cannot afford complacency. The Afghan people continue to resist terror and tyranny with courage and dignity. They deserve solidarity and action, not abandonment. Our mission stands ready to work with all Member States, the United Nations Office of Counterterrorism and regional partners to eliminate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We believe that only through genuine multilateral cooperation, governance grounded in the rule of law, justice, accountability and respect for international law, we can move toward a world.


Free from scourge of terrorism.


Thank you, Mr. Chair.


And I thank you for the statement. And I will now invite the representative of Panama to take the floor. Please. Thank you very much, Chairman. At the outset, please allow me to congratulate the distinguished members of the Bureau upon your elections and for heading up the work of this Sixth Committee. The Republic of Panama wishes you every success in your roles and reiterates the fact that we stand fully ready to work with you constructively during this 80th session. Chairman, Panama unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, since it is one of the most grave threats to to international peace and security. It is a flagrant violation of international law and it is a direct attack against human dignity. No cause, ideology or belief can justify these acts. Therefore, we underscore that they must not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group at all. Our position is based on an active commitment to the international legal framework. Panama is a state party to the 18 universal instruments for counterterrorism, as well as regional conventions within the framework of the Organization of American States. What's more, we have strengthened our domestic legal framework by way of law number 23 of 2015 and its reforms that regulate money laundering, the financing of terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. This legal framework beefs up the work of our financial and judicial supervision institutions in line with relevant resolutions of the Security Council, which include resolutions 1373 of 21 and resolution 2462 of 2019 as a logistical an international logistical and financial hub, Panama attaches specific special priority to international cooperation. We're working closely with multilateral bodies such as the Latin American Financial Task Force, the GAFILAT and the Inter American Committee Against Terrorism and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, the unodc, in order to strengthen the traceability of financial operations, to share information intelligence and to protect our borders and strategic transit points. Chairman the fight against terrorism requires a comprehensive approach that should not be limited to the repressive response. It's essential to address the structural causes that feed terrorism, which include inequality, social exclusion, a lack of opportunities and related phenomena such as transnational organized crime and the illicit trafficking of arms. In this regard, Panama highlights the need to articulate counterterrorism with the promotion of sustainable development in line with UN Global Counterterrorism Strategy and with the Sustainable Development goals, in particular, STG 16 on peaceful and inclusive societies. Our country fully supports multilateral initiatives that urge Member States to ramp up the cooperation between judicial and police authorities, to expand technical training programs, as well as to consolidate effective mechanisms for reciprocal assistance. It's only by way of collective sustained and coordinated efforts that we'll be able to overcome this common threat effectively at the same time as preserving the principles and the fundamental values enshrined in the UN Charter. Thank you very much. And now the next speaker on my list is the Deputy Permanent Representative of Angola. Please, you have the floor.


Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you for the opportunity to address the Committee. My delegation congratulates you and the member of the Bureau on your well deserved election to lead the work of the sixth Grade Committee. Allow me to assure you of my delegation cooperation and support throughout the work of the Committee. We take this opportunity to thank the preceding Bureau for their successful conclusion of the 79th session. Angola Associates itself with a statement delivered by Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of Non Aliyah Movements and Republic of Cameroon on behalf of the Afghan Group. We thank the Secretary General for his report containing document A80177 and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the principle of the United nations shortage and global fight against terrorism. Mr. Chair, Angola condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations committed by whoever anywhere. Afgha has been the scene of increasingly frequent terrorism terrorist attacks, especially in the Sahel, Great Lake Region and Horn of Africa. Angola deeply regret the suffering of affected population and reiterate that the fight against terrorism on the continent cannot be isolated in any way. It is imperative that the United nations and the Security Council ensure adequate, sustained and planned funding for African Union led people support operation based on predictable contribution and in close coordination with Member States. The adoption of the security council resolution 2719 in December 2023 was a step in the right direction. We call for its swift operationalization. Furthermore, it is crucial to address the underlying cause of terrorism. Extreme poverty, youth unemployment, slave social exclusion and lack of access to education and health create fertile ground for their extremism to flourish. Mr. Chair, Angola believes that investing in infrastructure, energy, education, social inclusion is key steps toward achieving social peace. In this context, we call for an enhanced cooperation between the United nations and the African Union and that the Chapter 8 of the charter with a view to mobilize planning and sustainable funding for peace support operation in counterterrorism contexts. Respecting the principle of subsidiarity and regional ownership Angola recognized that terrorism as a transactional phenomenon necessitates an integrated legal approach that encompasses binding international instruments, regional security mechanism and effective national policy, while respecting fundamental rights and the principle of legality. Mr. Chair, the Malabu Declaration of May 2022 derived from Afghan Union 16 extraordinary summit addressed the search of coups and other unconstitutional interruption of democratic government across Africa. In this regard, we reiterate our firm opposition to an unconstitutional change of power. Unlawful government takeover should not be legitimized or tolerated. Political stability and respect for the democratic order are essential pillars for preventing terrorism and strengthening the resilience of our institutions. We underline the needs to strengthen the implementation of the relevant resolution of the Security Council, in particular Resolution 1373, 1540, 2178 and 2396, which establish legal obligation for States to combat terrorist financing and displacement of foreign terrorist fighter and international cooperation in criminal matters. Mr. Chair, Angol as consolidates a robust legal framework to prevent and combat terrorism, initially with the law 1917 on preventing and combating terrorism and later to enforce by law 9 24, which brought together aligned with international standards established by the United nations and the Financial Action Task Force. In addition, the country has the following legal instruments, the Law on the Classification of Money Laundering, the Law on International Judicial Cooperation in Criminal Matters and the Law regarding the Repatriation of financial resources. Mr. Chair, the new Angolan Penal Code provides further provision for the criminalization of crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity and crimes of terrorism and international terrorism at institutional level. Special mention should be made to the creation of the Financial Information Unit, a body responsible for receiving, analyzing and disseminating information on suspicious financial transactions, playing a central role in the prevention of money laundering and terrorism financing. This articulated set of legislative and institutional measures reaffirm Angola's commitment to to national security and to the principle of legality, international cooperation and the protection of human rights. Finally, we emphasize the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism financing. Fighting terrorism must respect human rights and international law. Thank you, Mr. President.


I thank the representative of Angola for his statement and I now invite the representative of Iran to deliver his statement.


Thank you, Mr. Chair for giving me the floor. My delegation would like to align itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the Non Ally Movement, the Group of Friends in defense of the Charter of the United nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation under decision diadem. Mr. Chair, terrorist activities continue to pose an immense threat and formidable challenges to the safety and security of societies and have detrimental impacts on economic and social development of countries while eroding the foundations of rule of law at the international level. As highlighted in the Declaration on Measures to Eliminate International Terrorism, Acts, methods and practices of terrorism constitute a grave violation of the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. The Islamic Republic of Iran, as a responsible founding member of the United nations, has demonstrated its continued commitment in fighting terrorism by playing its crucial and determining role in defeating terrorist groups such as ISIS in the region. Such role has always been praised by the peoples and governments of affected states. Without the sacrifices of the bravest of our people, especially General Qasem Soleimani, who was at the forefront of counterterrorism in the region, the ISIS would have expanded its scourge of terror and violence beyond the region. ISIS has been defeated and lost its brutal control and territorial dominance. Nevertheless, the threat of resurgence of this terrorist group persists as it continues to conduct terrorist attacks against innocent civilians. In this regard, we highlight the importance of countering this threat which requires genuine collective responses in good faith, free from politicization and double standards. Mr. Chair, on 13 June 2025, the Israeli terrorist regime initiated an unprovoked and premeditated aggression against my country while deliberately attacking civilian populated areas in multiple large cities of Iran where millions of people reside, killing more than a thousand of people, including women and children, leaving much more injured in the course of its blatant aggression. The Israeli regime also conducted numerous terrorist attacks against civilians, including Iranian scientists and university professors, in some cases killing members of an entire family. The regime also committed repeated acts of aggression in full complicity with the United States by targeting Iranian IAEA safeguarded peaceful nuclear facilities, posing significant risk of release of radioactive material while targeting civilian properties and infrastructure such as Hospitals, including a children's hospital, medical centers, Iranian live broadcast TV and humanitarian offices, which are known by some, in the counterterrorism parlance, as soft targets. We have submitted a preliminary information to the United nations containing details on the extent of brutality and gross violations of the Israeli regime as contained in document S 2025, 477. Mr. Chair, we condemn in the strongest possible terms all acts, methods and practices of terrorism of the Israeli regime, as well as its atrocious crimes committed against the Palestinian people, including the ongoing genocide, which are gross violations of the fundamental human rights and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. We underline the vital importance of performance of obligation of States against terrorist acts and atrocious crimes of the occupying power. We also call upon the United Nations Security Council to immediately impose effective sanctions against the Israeli regime under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter to prevent and stop all its atrocities and highlight the urgent need to hold the regime fully accountable for all its crimes and atrocities. Mr. Chair, we would like to reiterate that terrorism could not and should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group. As we are approaching the ninth review of the Global Counterterrorism Strategy, looking forward to constructive engagement within that process, we would like to highlight the importance of a balanced approach in the finalization of the anticipated resolution, taking into account the positions and views of Muslim countries, given that, unfortunately, Muslim communities around the world increasingly fall victim to various forms of terrorism, hatred and violence resulting from right wing supremacism, including deplorable acts of desecrating Quran and mosques which incite terrorism against Muslims. I thank you so much.


I thank you for your statement. And the next speaker on my list is Maldives. So please, you have the floor.


Thank you, Chair. The Maldives aligns with the statements delivered by Iran on behalf of the Non Aligned Movement and Saudi Arabia on behalf of the oic. Terrorism mutates. It is networked, technologically enabled and financed through illicit flaws. It thrives where order collapses and impunity persists. It knows no borders, no faith. It hijacks identities, twists beliefs and corrodes dignity. The Maldives condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, whoever commits it, wherever it occurs. The Maldives therefore condemns Israel's recent attack on Qatar. It was an attack on global efforts against terrorism. Israel's continuing aggression in Gaza, carried out with impunity, violates international law, humanitarian law, and human rights with no consequences. The foundations of peace and stability everywhere are eroded. Terrorism feeds on prejudice. Islamophobic tropes are Weaponized stigmatizing communities, fueling recruitment, deepening division. The result is collective punishment, normalized hate mainstreamed, fear politicized. This trajectory must end through accountability, respect for international law and protection of communities at risk. The Maldives is firm in its commitment. At home, we strengthen our response through modernized legislation, dedicated institutions and community engagement. A true whole of nation approach. These efforts are supported by UN agencies and partners internationally. We work with our partners to sustain progress we have made. Yet lasting change must begin within each member state by confronting threats honestly and accepting responsibility at home. The true frontline is prevention. We must starve the conditions that nourish terrorism. Sustainable development is the first defense through stronger societies, investment in education and youth empowerment. In the Maldives, youth form the majority. We invest in them with opportunities, skills and positive engagement. Protecting them from extremist ideologies is crucial. Radicalization through online propaganda remains a pressing concern. Technology misused spreads hate faster than borders can contain. Stronger collaboration is essential with tech companies, civil societies and states. Together, we must counter the misuse of online platforms and extremist propaganda. For small states, terrorism carries added vulnerabilities. Our geography makes us uniquely exposed. A nation of scattered islands cannot easily monitor maritime routes or secure porous borders. These vulnerabilities are not ours alone. They are global concerns. Small states cannot tackle them in isolation. The Maldives has taken steps to strengthen maritime security through regional partnerships. But to be effective, we need greater cooperation and technical assistance. Better surveillance, stronger capacity, shared responsibility. Only then can small states play their full role in keeping the seas and the world secure. In responding to terrorism, we must not lose sight of our core values. The cause must not erode the very values we aim to protect. International law and human rights must remain the foundation of counterterrorism. Lasting results come not from fear, but from justice. No country is safe from international terrorism. It is time to make our lands, seas and cyberspace places of resilience. Let us ensure our people feel protected included. We must stand united and we must not allow the darkness of terrorism to eclipse the light of peace. I thank you.


Thank you for the statement. And I am now turning to the representative of Mozambique, inviting him to deliver his statement.


Thank you very much, Mr.


Chair.


The delegation of Mozambique associated itself with the statement made by the distinguished representative of Cameroon on behalf of the Afghan group and the distinguished representative of Iran on behalf of the no Aligned Movement, respectively. In the framework of our common object of fighting international terrorism. We note with thanks the last Secretary General's report on MEJA to eliminate international terrorism and commend the government and the international organizations for the additional effort made towards the objective. Mozambique also advocated strengthening international cooperation in the fighting against terrorism, taking the UN Global Strategy against Terrorism as a reference. As indicated in the Secretary General's last biennial report on the implementation of the Strategy, there has been an increase in terrorist actions in Africa and an increase in small scale terrorist attacks in Mozambique during our term as no permanent member of the security council between 2022 and 2024, we placed a special emphasis to the needed leading role of African States, the African Union and Africa sub regional organizations in this fight in our continent. On this common effort, Mozambique joins the large majority of delegation and support the swift advance in the negotiations to conclude a comprehensive conventional on international terrorism which can strengthen the international legal framework for fighting international terrorism as well the convening of a high level conference under the auspices of the United nations to strengthen our global organized response to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Mr. Chair, as we have been sharing with these six committees, Mozambique has been a direct target on of International terrorism since 2017 in Cabo Delgado in the northern region of the country. Mozambique conduct its fighting against terrorism aligned with UN Global Counterterrorism Strategy, looking for an integrated and balanced implementation of of its four pillars. In this regard, the Mozambique government approved in March 2025 the National Strategy for the Implementation and Combat of Terrorism and Violent Extremism and established a multi sectorial institution of a technical and operational nature, the national center to coordinate its implementation. We continue to strengthen our defense and security capacity through intensive and specialized training of our forces. We also continue to strengthen our institution and legal framework, expanding correspondingly the space for international legal and judicial cooperation. As part of this ongoing work with the Eastern and Southern African Anti Money Laundering Group and the Financial Action Task Force. Mozambique expects to leave the gray list of financial risk very soon following the completion of the 26 plaintiff activities and the evaluation carried out the previous month of September. At the same time, Mozambique continued to promote the active engagement of communities and the religious faith in the fighting against the violent Islamist narrative, also highlighting the role of women and young people in maintaining peace and security. We are investing in these assets and pledging more international cooperation and support. To this end, we are also continuing to implementation of programs to promote development, training and creation of employment opportunities, diverting the young people from recruitment by terrorists as a fact and lying example of strengthening international cooperation in the fight against international terrorism. Mozambique has had since 2021 the direct support of SADC and Rwandan forces. The SADC mission ended last year with positive outcomes. The strong cooperation continues with the Rwandan forces as well as from Tanzania. Other international partners and friends like the European Union have been supporting Mozambique in the training and modernization of its defense and security forces. Mr. Chairman, even if restricted terrorist activity in Mozambique persists on the ground, creating a high number of internal displaced people who require humanitarian assistance and dignified and permanent resentment under the coordination of our National Institute for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management. We thank the United nations and other national and international partners for their continued support. Due to its expansionist and destabilizing nature, international terrorist activities in Mozambique pose a threat not only to the country, but also to the region and beyond, making international cooperation essential in the fighting against it. And that depends on our collective decisions. All advances we can make in our discussion in the SIKC Committee on this critical issue will certainly contribute to defeating international terrorism, including in Mozambique. I thank you very much.


I thank the representative of Mozambique for the statement and the next speaker on my list is the representative of Gambia. Please, you have the floor.


Thank you. Chair. Mr. Chair, the Gambia conveys its congratulations to you and members of the Bureau of the Sixth Committee on your assumption to the leadership of this important committee of the United Nations. Let me assure you of my delegation's unreserved support and commitment towards the successful holding of this 88th session. We thank the Secretary General for the report on this agenda item as contained in document A80.177. The Gambia aligns with the statement delivered by Cameroon on behalf of the African Group as well as the statement delivered on behalf of the Non Aligned Movement and the statement delivered on behalf of the oic. And we wish to make the following statement in our national capacity. We meet today not only at an inflection point, but at a decisive turn. We are in the midst of continual conflicts and violent extremism that has gained foothold in many countries in the time that security has become the overwhelming framework of governance. The Gambia continues to condemn all acts of terrorism and its manifestations and reiterates that nothing justifies its commission regardless of where it is committed. It is worthy to note that prevention of violent extremism goes beyond security. The solutions to the phenomenon should encompass both development, peace, building, tolerance, good governance and managing differences. It is therefore necessary to strengthen collaboration on the best available measures to stifle all outbreaks of conflict, insurgency and extremism in all its forms and manifestations. The need to call on all stakeholders to strengthen efforts towards addressing the root causes of radicalization and violent extremism is critical. Mr. Chair, the Republic of the Gambia is at the forefront of the fight against extremism and violence terrorism. Our commitment is envisaged to the signing and ratification of international and regional treaties combating terrorism and their domestication through an act of Parliament to our role as a member of the African Union Peace and Security Council, where the country continues to consistently call for proactive efforts at the African level on the critical need for strong cooperation between the United nations and the African Union to enhance efforts to address security challenges posed by the spread of terrorism and violent extremism as a crime against humanity. The Gambia imperatively recommends strong support for regional and international counterterrorism frameworks that prioritize information sharing among nations and the conduct of joint operations. The Gambia believes that concerted efforts by all stakeholders is required as the surest part to deprive terrorist groups of the funds to unleash terror and exacerbate political instability and insecurity. Mr. Chair, the acts of terrorists have murdered thousands of innocent people and continues to be a lethal threat to the security and stability of the international community. We amplify our call for support to adequately address the overall humanitarian situation in regions characterized by extreme poverty, food insecurity, forced displacement, social inequality, among others. We further call for significant humanitarian support and development action consistent with national and regional priorities. In this regard, we welcome the joint Consultative meeting between the African Union Peace and Security Council and the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council held in Abuja in 2024. We believe that the effective implementation of the outcome document of this meeting will provide an opportunity to reflect on the proliferation of terrorist groups that threatens peace, security and development. On the important issue of the implementation of the various UN resolutions on combating international terrorism, the Gambia is of the considered view that Member States ability to fully implement resolutions on terrorism continues to be hampered by a number of factors. This includes the porous nature of borders, lack of timely intelligence information, inadequate capacity of early detection, the wide reach of the network of terrorists. All these impediments requires us to have collective action responsibility and to take the responsibility to support and implement the provisions of resolutions that seek to prevent the scourge of terrorism. The Gambia also believes that we should not be mere bystanders in the current situation, especially when clear violations of international law and international humanitarian law are committed by terrorists and violent extremists. In this period, we continue to call for capacity building to assist Member States to effectively implement the regulatory frameworks and resolutions thereof, particularly for countries in the Global South. Mr. Chair, the recruitment of children by terrorists continues to be A matter of immense concern to our delegation, despite the recognition that it is one of the six grave violations against children in this regard and reaffirming our commitment to safeguarding children and ensuring their protection. And we must advocate for the Safe Schools Declaration which ensures that schools remain sanctuaries of learning free from attacks. We urge all Member States to reaffirm their commitment to this Declaration and take concrete steps to protect children from the recruitment of acts of terrorism. Equally important is the reintegration of children formerly associated with armed groups. We also need to strengthen monitoring and accountability mechanisms to ensure that perpetrators of child recruitment and order grave violations against children are held to account. As we navigate through these turbulent times, it is critical to reflect on our progress and the obstacles that lie ahead. The Gambia will rely on this update to continuously build on the work done so far, especially on the promotion of international rules and norms that advance peace, security and cop the proliferation of illicit arms. In closing, we urge all Member States to recognize the urgency of this issue and to take decisive and timely action. I thank you.


Thank you for the statement and the statement by the representative of Gambia will now be followed by the statement of the representative of the Russian Federation. Please, you have the floor.


Mr. Chairman, we congratulate you and all the members of the Bureau on the election. We count on fruitful work being done at this session. In International terrorism remains one of the chief threats to international peace and security. Fighting it is a common obligation which requires consistent, coordinated efforts on the part of all UN Member States. Of key importance is effective and professional cooperation with no double standards or politicization. The contemporary threat of terrorism is characterized by a high level of dynamism, complexity and adaptability. Hotbeds of tension in the hotspeds all over the world are substantial sources that fuel terrorist threats. The development of technology is not always only a benefit, it also poses a challenge. This is because terrorists are actively adopting those new technologies, honing their mechanisms for financing and planning operations, combining traditional methods with hybrid digital methods. What has become ubiquitous is the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, UAVs, complex improvised explosive devices, and there is a mounting cyber threat against critical infrastructure in the banking system. Internet propaganda through social networks and encrypted channels makes radicalization, recruiting and the planning of attacks more easy. Anonymous payments are increasingly used to gather funds and cryptocurrency transfers are becoming part of financing of terrorist networks. All of this means that national law enforcement needs to proceed in lockstep with the time, adapting their response and their efforts against terrorism in a rapidly developing Operational context In this context of a key task for the international community is enhancing efficiency and effectiveness of cooperation in the field of new technologies and financial monitoring. There's a need to develop legal and technical monitoring tools to share operational information and work together to develop international legal bases to counter the use of information and communications technology, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies and UAVs for criminal for terrorist purposes. We note the disturbing increase in the number of terrorist attacks that are motivated by xenophobia, racism and intolerance, including associated with foreign far right neo Nazi ideologies. In a number of Western countries these ideologies are garnering support and official structures often tend to downplay or hush up the scale of the problem. It's important to understand that the glorification of Nazism and Neo Nazism or the justification of them in the public sphere directly fuels radicalization. These negative trends require a decisive international pushback through combining efforts, sharing best practices to de radicalize people and develop specialized national legislation and effective law enforcement. What is particularly disturbing are the increasingly complex channels for financing terrorists and funneling weapons to them. States are obligated to coordinate their actions to check these flows, stepping up controls over cross border financial operations and they need to block illicit routes for deliveries. Russia has consistently advocated for the principle extradite or prosecute as a tool for combating impunity of terrorists, especially as regards foreign terrorist fighters. Mr. Chair, we roundly condemn the act of international terrorism in the form of the bombing of The Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 gas pipelines that happened 2022 in the Baltic Sea. An act was committed that violated a whole range of the norms of areas in a wide range of areas of international law. It seriously harmed the economic interests of a large group of countries. It harmed the environment and the safety of shipping. Given this indisputably grave if not unprecedented incident, what is absolutely egregious was the systematic refusal of a number of States to shoulder their international legal obligations to provide legal assistance under spurious pretexts. They failed to grant a total of 13 requests by our competent authorities. These requests were sent to the authorities of Denmark, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland. These refusals are a glaring attempt to impede the search for truth. They are an obstruction of justice and they were an attempt to prevent the perpetrators from being held to account. What was telling is also the dogged resistance that Western countries have put on display resistance to the launching of an international investigation of this act of international terrorism through the Security Council. They justify their position by citing their full confidence in the supposedly effective national investigations of Denmark, Sweden and Germany. As is well known in the first two countries, these investigations turned up nothing. And in Germany they were non professional. And they were accompanied by deliberate and steady leaks of information to the press, fueling an improbable account of events drawn from run of the mill conspiracy theories. In that regard, I want to stress that the politically motivated refusals to cooperate on counterterrorism is absolutely unacceptable. Dividing terrorists into good and bad terrorists and creating for them safe havens, attempts to justify terrorist attacks with political or ideological justifications. All of this sets a time bomb under international peace and security. History teaches that the repercussions of such myopic approaches can in time boomerang back against those who use them. Mr. Chair, we can't allow to go uncommented.


On.


The acts of seeking to spread terrorist activity. There is information about the involvement of foreign forces in Africa in subversive activity, the circulation of disinformation, and the support for armed groups. This corrodes the efforts of African states to ensure peace and stability. Under the slogans of counterterrorism, the former colonial powers are imposing their military presences and they're trampling underfoot the principles of sovereignty and non intervention. Speaking of the challenges facing Africa, one has to mention the subversive activity of the Kyiv regime. There's data about their direct involvement in reconnaissance and sabotage activity and the imposition of illegal schemes to supply weapons, recruit mercenaries and provide instructors sent to Africa. The representatives of the region at the high level week noted that Ukraine had become a key provider of drones for terrorists. And they're not providing only equipment, but also technology. They're also providing services, namely training operators and providing terrorist organizations with their own specialists to attack local soldiers and law enforcement personnel. There's a need to meticulously and impartially investigate the information. The countries of the region should do this with the involvement of UN experts and international experts. Mr. Chair, in May and June 2025, Russian territory saw bombings of passenger trains. This happened in Bryansk, Kursk and Voronevsk regions. It killed civilians and wounded dozens. We urge the international community to strongly condemn these terrorist attacks in accordance with the UN Charter Resolution 1373 and the International Convention on the Suppression of the Financing of terrorism of 1999. Mr. Mr. Chair, Russia favors. When responding to the challenge of terrorism, Russia favors a comprehensive approach. There's a need to strengthen the international sharing of intelligence and provide mutual legal assistance and develop common standards to monitor new technologies. There's a need to toughen measures to curb financing of terrorism. We insist on the need to not politicize the fight against terrorism and not to apply double standards in assessing threats. We've consistently supported the initiative to develop and adopt a comprehensive convention on international terrorism with no politically motivated exemptions. The definition of terrorism in such a convention should not create any loopholes that could justify terrorist attacks under the COVID of ideology, religion or political purposes. This convention must be a reliable tool that strengthens the universality in the coordination of the international legal response.


Thank you. I thank the representative of the Russian Federation for the statement. I feel obliged to remind the Committee that during its first meeting it has agreed on time limits and I would encourage everyone to stick to that limit. We have quite a long list of speakers to go through. The next speaker on the list is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Please, you have the floor.


Mr. Chair. To begin with, my delegation congratulates you on your election as Chair of the Committee and expresses hope that the work of the Committee will become successful under your able chairmanship. My delegation aligns itself with the statements made by the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Bolivian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of the Non Aligned Movement and a group of friends in defense of the Charter of the United Nations. Mr. Chair, 50 years have passed since the UN embarked on debating the issue of eliminating terrorism, a major threat to international peace and security. However, today state of sponsored acts of terrorism are opening perpetuated as never before, thus threatening the existence and territorial integrity of a sovereign nation and sustainable socioeconomic development as well as peace and security in the regions and beyond. Due to heinous Israeli acts of genocide lasting for two years, the Gaza Strip has turned into leaving her and grave international law, including international humanitarian law. It is deplorable that unprecedented genocide against innocent civilians are connived at and enforced under the pretext of a legitimate right to self defence and the unanimous call of the international community for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is battered by a single permanent member of it, the Secret Council. As a result, the flames of the Qatar Strip is spilling over to the rest of the Middle East. It is a tragic reality of today that acts of encroachment on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of sovereign states remain unabated due to high handed and arbitrary practices of the dominationist process in pursuit of the hegemonic ambition at the cost of sovereignty and security interests of our countries and nations. My delegation hope that the current decision will mark a significant opportunity for discussing realistic and reasonable Ways to counter international terrorism. On that note, my delegation makes the following objectives observations in its national capacity. First, state sponsored terrorism in that toppling of governments of a sovereign state should never be tolerated. It is crystal clear that apart from the principle of respect for sovereignty and sovereign equality, the development of international relations is inconsolable and global peace and stability cannot be achieved. Recently, we are witnessing open acts of aggression against sovereign nations in every part of the world. Those acts pose the biggest threat to global peace and stability and constitute the most serious challenge to the whole mankind. The international community should enhance solidarity and collaboration to form and frustrate the moves of anti peace forces to justify intervention and armed invasion against the sovereign state under the pretext of removal of streets, maintenance of peace and security and championing of freedom and democracy. Second, arbitrary application of pressure on independent states under the pretext of counterterrorism should never be condoned. In terms of countering terrorism. DAOBU standards and selectivity are detrimental to cooperation of the international community to eliminate international terrorism and erode mutual trust among member states. However, the US and its allied forces are arbitrarily labeling independent states as state sponsors of terrorism and even imposing unilateral coercive measures, thus abusing counterterrorism as a tool for neo colonialism through the dreadful situations of those countries entangled in the vicious cycle of terrorism and retaliation. The international community is obviously witnessing the dire consequences of extremely politicized and selective war on terror committed by the US and the West. We should sharpen vigilance on and categorically reject the moves of the US and its allied forces seeking to tarnish the image of the disobedient countries and perpetuate intervention and armed aggression against the independent states under the pretext of the counterterrorism. Mr. Chair, it is the consistent position of the DPRK government to oppose terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and any assistance thereto. The DPRK is actively engaged in global counterterrorism efforts through accession to major international conventions such as International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism. It also takes strict measures to protect national security and people's lives and properties from all sorts of terrorist attacks and streets. In the future too, the DPRK will fulfill its responsibility and duty to eliminate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and ensure peace and stability in the region and the rest of the world. Thank you.


Thank you for your statement. And now I give the floor to the distinguished permanent representative of Peru, Tienne USA de la Palabra Senor you have the floor, sir. Thank you, Chairman. At the outset, please allow me to congratulate you upon your election to share the Sixth Committee. And of course, we extend these congratulations to the members of the Bureau. Chairman, you can certainly count on the support of the delegation of Peru for successful delivery of the work that has just begun. Peru also thanks the Secretariat for the report on this agenda item. Peru reaffirms its commitment to the principles and purposes of the UN Charter, as well as to the international rule of law based order. Chairman, we are saying this aware of the fact that terrorism, in all of its forms, manifestations and new modalities, is one of the gravest threats to peace and security and human rights globally. Chairman. Terrorism is an attack against the fundamental principles of the United nations and it undermines efforts to build inclusive, free, fair and peaceful societies. For this reason, Peru very strongly condemns all acts of terrorism, regardless of their origin or motivation, and we reiterate that there is no justification whatsoever for these acts. Terrorism has never been, nor will it ever be, a means for achieving social change. Violence only generates destruction and human rights violations. The victims are above all the poorest and most disadvantaged people. That's why we support any action to generate sustained and efficient multilateral responses to eradicate violence and terrorist acts, always respecting international law and human rights.


Chairman.