General Assembly Session 56 meeting 14

Mr. Rosenthal (Guatemala)

Next Friday, Ambassador Edmundo Orellana Mercado of Honduras, in his capacity as President Pro Tempore of the Central American Integration System, will be making a statement on behalf of member countries. Guatemala totally associates itself with the statement that Ambassador Orellana will be making. Moreover, we would like to make a few specific points from the standpoint of our own country.

I hail from a country that, in a certain way, is a microcosm of the world. Within it, individual income levels that compare with those of the richer countries coexist with incomes that put us among the poorest; islands of modernity dot a sea of backwardness; methods of production and organization befitting the twenty-first century operate in parallel, and sometimes in an interconnected fashion, with others that have hardly evolved in the last four centuries. One finds, likewise, a modern culture that coexists with cultures that date back centuries. The tensions that derive from these and other antipodal relationships marking Guatemalan society have, in the past, given rise to manifestations of violence, intolerance and also terrorism. We have thus come to realize, as a general premise and through our own experience, that no social claim, however legitimate it may appear to its adherents, justifies taking the lives of innocent civilians through acts whose only logic is to sow terror, disquiet and destruction.

We have also learned that, first of all, representative democracy is the friendliest framework for the expression, discussion and eventual resolution of grievances. Secondly, economic and social development is the most appropriate method for responding to many of the grievances that have accumulated over time. And, thirdly, multiculturalism is not only compatible with social cohesion, but the latter is actually promoted by cultural, linguistic and ethnic diversity.

It follows from all that we have been through at the national level that both the Government and civil society of my country reject, categorically and vigorously, all forms of terrorism. We fully realize that terrorism flouts the universally accepted values recognized on the international level, including the right to life, the right to live free from fear and the right to freedom of movement. In addition, terrorism, in any of its forms, is apt to give rise, in international relations, to a gamut of negative effects ranging from frictions between States to the breach of international peace.

Terrorism clashes, moreover, with values that are the mainstays of our national legislation, as well as of the undertakings laid down in the Peace Agreements concluded in 1996, including representative democracy, the right to development, tolerance and full observance of human rights. In our case, the identity and the rights of indigenous peoples hold particular significance.

Our horror and repudiation of the tragic events of 11 September have been expressed in various forums and in different ways. These include our expressions of solidarity and sympathy with the Government and people of the United States, our firm support for resolution 56/1 of this General Assembly, as well as for the two resolutions adopted on 21 September within the Organization of American States (OAS), and the declaration of the Presidents of Central America and a representative of Belize of 19 September entitled "Central America United against Terrorism". I will not dwell on that aspect on this occasion. Rather, I wish to summarize our policy on how to deal with the situation in the future, based on the following six points.

The first is our absolute and unequivocal rejection of the use of indiscriminate violence against innocent persons, regardless of who promotes it, for the purpose of intimidating, threatening, blackmailing or provoking terror, as well as our unreserved identification with the declarations annexed to resolutions 49/60 and 51/210.

The second is our conviction that the fight against terrorism is and must be a means of realizing and ensuring the values enshrined in the United Nations Charter of promoting tolerance, peaceful coexistence among different cultures, religions, races and nations and the celebration of the richness inherent in human diversity. Thus the fight against terrorism should never be a means of encouraging actions against particular races, religions, cultures, beliefs or creeds. This conviction is particularly meaningful in this United Nations Year of Dialogue among Civilizations.

Thirdly, combating terrorism without quarter also involves fighting crime, drug-trafficking and money-laundering, given the actual or potential links between these scourges, which are becoming increasingly international in nature.

The fourth point is our conviction that the fight against terrorism requires action at the level of each of our countries, complemented by actions within the multilateral framework, in which both regional and international organizations have a fundamental role to play.

Fifthly, along those lines, we believe it is necessary to apply with greater rigour and effectiveness the large body of international legal norms, embodied in conventions, protocols and declarations already adopted within the United Nations system during the last 30 years, aimed at collectively fighting terrorism. For our part, the events of 11 September have introduced a renewed sense of the urgent need for our participation in all the existing global counter-terrorism treaties, including the International Convention for the Suppression of Terrorist Bombings and the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism.

Sixthly, since that body of norms, complemented by the measures taken at the level of each country as well as regionally, was insufficient to prevent the events we witnessed on 11 September, we favour the adoption, within the framework of the United Nations, of a comprehensive convention against terrorism and a convention against acts of nuclear terrorism. We concur likewise with the view expressed by Secretary-General Kofi Annan that the United Nations is the natural forum for tackling this common scourge, as well as the most appropriate body for dealing with it, as the Security Council demonstrated last Friday.

Finally, events as horrendous and tragic as those that will always be associated with 11 September should undoubtedly bring some alteration of our organization of work to give terrorism the attention it deserves. We should not, however, falter in dealing with other priority items and objectives contained in the Millennium Declaration. After all, part of the fight against terrorism consists in creating throughout the world conditions that eliminate the breeding ground for extremist causes. Thus international peace and security, the defence of the environment, the observance of human rights and especially development should all form part of our priority agenda.

Mr. Al-Ashtal (Yemen)

It gives me pleasure to extend to you, Mr. President, our congratulations on your election to the presidency of the General Assembly. I am confident that you will conduct the work of this fifty-sixth session successfully, given your well-known ability, expertise and rich political experience.

On 11 September the world was shocked, watching on television screens the horrible terrorist explosions in the cities of New York and Washington and in Pennsylvania that killed thousands of innocent United States citizens and a large number of citizens from other countries, including Yemeni citizens. On this painful and sad occasion we fully condemn these barbaric terrorist acts against the United States, and extend our heartfelt condolences and deep sympathy to the American people in general and to the families and relatives of the victims in particular.

The Republic of Yemen, which has long suffered from terrorist acts, the most recent being the attack against the United States destroyer Cole in the Gulf of Aden, condemns unreservedly all terrorist attacks and reaffirms the need to combat these acts at all national and international levels.

We also call for the implementation of the provisions of international law and relevant resolutions on the prohibition of the commission of terrorist attacks, their financing, incitement, condoning and protection or provision of asylum to the perpetrators. In this regard, Security Council resolution 1373 (2001), which we strongly welcome, was unanimously adopted on Friday in response to the urgent need to drain all terrorist financing sources. The resolution also reaffirmed the need for information exchange between States, with a view to combating terrorist acts at an earlier stage. It is clear that the importance of this resolution lies not only in the fact that it was adopted by the Security Council but also in that it was an action-oriented and mandatory resolution adopted under Chapter VII of the Charter. The Security Council has decided to establish a Security Council Committee, composed of all its members, to monitor the implementation of the resolution and call on appropriate expertise. It also called on all States to provide the Committee with information on the steps taken in implementing the resolution, including the issuance of laws and rules and the establishment of national measures in accordance with the Security Council resolution.

Although the resolution is a new step in the fight against terrorism, it contains a loophole that will undoubtedly affect the possibility of its implementation, particularly since it requires a positive response and cooperation on the part of all States. The resolution is not based on an agreed definition of terrorism or terrorist acts. Therefore, the Committee established by the Council to monitor the implementation of the resolution will bear the great responsibility of defining the terrorists targeted by the resolution. The Committee will gain the full cooperation of States in implementing Council resolutions insofar as it takes into account other United Nations resolutions, particularly General Assembly resolutions.

Terrorism is a global phenomenon that does not recognize national, religious or geographical boundaries. It is synonymous with extremism and blind intolerance. It is therefore a mistake to direct an accusation of terrorism against any nation, people or religion. We therefore denounce retaliatory acts against Arabs and Muslims anywhere. At the same time, we note with satisfaction the positions of some high officials in the United States and Europe who have also denounced retaliatory acts against Arabs and Muslims in their countries.

Terrorism is a crime that cannot be justified or left unpunished. In view of the increasing importance of combating terrorism at the international level, the General Assembly has included an item on measures to eliminate terrorism in its agenda since the twenty-seventh session in 1972. The Republic of Yemen, guided by the tolerant teachings of Islam and a commitment to the Charter, human rights conventions and conventions against terrorism, does its utmost to combat this very serious phenomenon in society. We have therefore taken all possible legislative and administrative measures. Furthermore, we denounce and condemn criminal terrorist acts anywhere in the world and express our readiness to cooperate regionally and internationally in all efforts to combat that scourge.

The Republic of Yemen is party to most international conventions against terrorism. In 2001, certain laws were enacted in Yemen with regard to conventions against terrorism; they are: law No. 9 (2000) with regard to the approval of accession of Yemen to the Protocol on the Suppression of Unlawful Acts of Violence at Airports serving International Civil Aviation, supplementary to the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Civil Aviation signed in Montreal in 1971; law No. 10 (2000) with regard to approving the accession of the Republic of Yemen to the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation signed in Rome in 1988; law No. 12 (2000) on the accession of the Republic of Yemen to the Protocol for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Fixed Platforms Located on the Continental Shelf, which was also signed in Rome.

On the whole, the Republic of Yemen has signed 10 conventions against terrorism. Aside from the provisions of Islamic shariah, which combats terrorist activities, our national legislation, especially criminal law, has included very firm laws and strict punishment against terrorist acts. We have also enacted a law against the crimes of kidnapping and highway robbery in 1998, and imposed the most severe of penalties against the perpetrators of such crimes. Our legislative bodies have been implementing all this legislation and have imposed severe sentences against perpetrators of terrorist acts, which has amounted to execution in certain cases.

We call for combating terrorism, including State terrorism, which is practised by Israel against the Palestinians. The terrorism, systematic killing, violence and sieges witnessed and suffered by the Palestinians, the elderly, women and children at the hands of the Israeli army and heavily armed settlers should also be denounced and condemned. We call upon the international community and the United Nations to provide the appropriate protection for the Palestinian people.

In conclusion, my delegation believes that the draft comprehensive convention against international terrorism comes at the right time, and can be developed to represent another instrument that would close all the loopholes in the partial conventions against terrorism. We hope to start the third millennium leaving behind violence, war, destruction and fear, and looking forward to a world of peace, security, justice, equality and prosperity for all peoples, where human rights are embodied in their noblest meaning.

Mr. Sun (Republic of Korea)

The Republic of Korea strongly condemns the abominable crime committed against innocent civilians on September 11. Such terrorist acts constitute barbaric assaults on human decency and democracy. As they also run counter to the purposes and principles of the Charter and international law in general, the perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of such heinous acts should be brought to justice.

The Government of the Republic of Korea has maintained its unflagging position against international terrorism. We reaffirm our unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, for whatever purpose and by whomever it is perpetrated. The Republic of Korea is determined to take part in collective actions, as well as take individual steps deemed necessary, to deter future acts of international terrorism, with a view to enhancing long-term international peace and security.

In that regard, the Republic of Korea welcomes the adoption of resolution 56/1 and Security Council resolutions 1368 (2001), of 12 September, and 1373 (2001), of 28 September 2001.

The attacks have made it evident that no country and no place is free from the scourge of terrorism. Terrorism has become increasingly destructive in its magnitude and unimaginable in its forms and manifestations. As confirmed in the Council's resolution, terrorism has become one of the principal threats to international peace and security. In the light of these circumstances, it is imperative that the international community move forward to vigorously deal with these new challenges and to ensure that terrorists do not achieve their odious goals. Particularly pressing is the need to strengthen joint international efforts to prevent terrorist attacks using commercial airlines and other means.

This tragedy has presented us with the solemn task of tackling terrorism issues at the United Nations. The General Assembly, where international opinion on this matter is converging, is an important forum for pursuing a cooperative international effort to prevent and suppress the terrorist threat. The international community is watching us, anticipating with great hope a concerted effort against terrorism. It is incumbent upon us to live up to that hope.

As the Secretary-General pointed out, the most crucial thing as we face this tremendous challenge is to maintain unity among ourselves. We should stand together and demonstrate our unswerving resolve to those who have committed acts of terrorism.

In that regard, I call upon all Member States to work together to ensure the early adoption of the comprehensive convention and the full implementation of all relevant conventions. My delegation also wishes to see the divergence of views on the draft international convention for the suppression of acts of nuclear terrorism resolved as swiftly as possible.

It is equally important for Member States to take the necessary steps to translate international agreements into specific domestic laws and regulations in order to strengthen overall preparedness against terrorism and to take the necessary actions thereon. In particular, it is urgent that all Member States take effective measures to prevent and suppress the financing of terrorists and terrorist organizations.

My delegation also supports regional cooperation for the prevention of terrorism, as a complement to the United Nations efforts to suppress terrorism and raise public awareness of the terrorist threat. The synergy created through the pursuit of both regional and international strategies will be instrumental in the formation of a successful collective effort to suppress international terrorism.

The Republic of Korea, currently a party to 7 of the 12 international instruments for the suppression of international terrorism, will accelerate its domestic procedure for the early ratification of, or accession to, the remaining 5 agreements, including the 1999 International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism. Furthermore, in order to enhance the effectiveness of its domestic mechanism for combating terrorism, the Republic of Korea will enact an anti-terrorism law at the earliest possible date.

In the meantime, my Government will implement Security Council resolutions 1368 (2001) and 1373 (2001), and is more than willing to take part in the collective undertakings of the international community.

Mr. Erwa (Sudan)

At the outset, I have the great pleasure of extending my sincere congratulations to you, Sir, on your election to preside over the fifty-sixth session of the General Assembly. We are confident that, with your well-known statesmanship and abilities, you will successfully conduct the work of this session. I must also extend my thanks and appreciation to your predecessor, Mr. Harri Holkeri, who has just concluded a term of office replete with accomplishments.

Our deliberations this year on measures to eliminate international terrorism have taken on particular importance, as we have experienced a humanitarian tragedy resulting from the criminal terrorist act that took place on 11 September. In addition to horrifying other American cities, that event horrified the people of New York city, the host of our international Organization, and claimed the lives of thousands of innocent people. My delegation wishes to stress its total condemnation of that heinous act. We extend our deepest sympathy and most sincere condolences to the American delegation. We ask that it convey those condolences to the bereaved families of the victims and to the families of the firemen, policemen and medical staff who gave their lives in the line of duty.

Sudan's condemnation and renunciation of acts of terrorism targeting innocent civilians is not born of the moment; rather, it is a reflection of a genuine spirit stemming from our cultural heritage and values. Our position is grounded in good will and is an extension of the ceaseless effort in which we have been engaged for years to underscore Sudan's commitment to combating terrorism. In this regard, Sudan has actively cooperated with the Security Council. It has also signed and acceded to every international convention on terrorism -- all international conventions to eliminate international terrorism. Sudan is therefore among the countries at the very forefront of that effort. Sudan has also renewed its commitment to the elimination of international terrorism by participating in bilateral cooperative programmes with its immediate neighbours and with other States, including the United States of America.

Sudan wishes to express its support for the statement to be made subsequently on behalf of the Arab Group on measures to eliminate international terrorism. The Sudan also reaffirms its commitment to the established principles of the Organization of African Unity, the Organization of the Islamic Conference, the African Group and the Non-Aligned Movement in this sphere. The Sudan also stresses the importance of respect for the inalienable right of all peoples under foreign occupation to self-determination and independence. In that connection, we warn that Israeli exploitation of the current situation in order to escalate oppression of the Palestinian people would be a grave matter.

My delegation is convinced that terrorism is a criminal scourge that must not be linked with any culture, race or religion. Terrorism is terrorism. What took place on 11 September was an act of terrorism that had nothing whatever to do with Islam.

My delegation is most grateful for the wise statements and assurances offered by President Bush, by other members of the United States Administration and by European leaders affirming that the war against terrorism does not mean a war against Islam. We stress the importance of bolstering coexistence among religions and cultures.

The Sudan is matching its words with deeds. We proclaim to all that our territory will never be a haven for terrorists or terrorist groups, and we express our commitment to constructive cooperation in any international effort to eradicate terrorism. The Sudan renews its determination to implement the relevant provisions of international law and United Nations resolutions on the suppression of acts of terrorism and of funding, instigating and condoning them and protecting their perpetrators. It welcomes Security Council resolution 1373 (2001).

Sudan, itself a victim of terrorism by outlaw groups, takes this opportunity to call on all States Members of the United Nations to respond positively to General Assembly resolution 56/1, and to commit themselves without reservation to its letter and spirit with a view to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

In conclusion, we pray that peace may hold sway throughout the world, that justice, equity and right may reign, and that bitterness may be eradicated. We pray that all people may coexist, irrespective of race, colour or religion, in a world that we wish to be stable, secure, united and peace-loving.

Mr. Cowen (Ireland)

There are moments in history so defining and so etched in the memory of all who witness them that they become landmarks in time, defining events that change history and lead to new impulses of resolve and determination. On 11 September, such a moment occurred as the forces of international terrorism struck the people of the United States with a viciousness and evil of purpose that caused revulsion and horror around the world.

Those acts of barbarous terrorism and the determined international response which must necessarily follow do not, as some have suggested, represent a conflict between civilizations, or a religious war. International terrorism strikes at the universal values, including that of religious tolerance, on which the United Nations is founded. Our collective response to these outrages must uphold those values and put in stark relief the differences which divide those who uphold the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter and those, hiding in our midst, who would seek to subvert those same principles.

International terrorism must be denied the means and the opportunity to launch attacks in pursuit of any cause or perceived grievance. There can be no exceptions. This calls for firm resolve. The defeat of terrorism will take time, and it cannot be achieved in the absence of a total commitment by Governments to the task and without the widest possible cooperation among them.

The General Assembly has done excellent work over the years in addressing various aspects of terrorism and in establishing the measures that Member States need to take. That work must now be carried on with a greater sense of urgency to achieve the full complement of international instruments that is required. Of course, reaching agreement on conventions in this Assembly is clearly not enough, and neither is their signature. The record of signature, ratification and implementation has been disappointing, and this work must now move right to the top of our agenda. It is by our actions alone that we can demonstrate our determination to succeed.

Action has already been forthcoming in the Security Council and in the General Assembly. The message is going out. We, the peoples of the United Nations, are saying to the terrorists: you do not act for us; we reject your campaign of death and murder; your path is the path to the destruction of everything we cherish and all that the United Nations embodies and reflects; we will act together to ensure that you do not prevail.

We must meet the threat of international terrorism on three levels. First, we must, as States Members of the United Nations, do all we can in accordance with Security Council resolution 1368 (2001), to bring to justice the perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of the attacks of 11 September and to prevent further such atrocities. Secondly, we must combine in a longer-term initiative to defeat the monster of international terrorism by choking off its funds, by cutting its supply of munitions and technical support and by denying it the bases from which it plans and prepares its actions. Thirdly, we must redouble our efforts to put an end to the many conflicts and injustices which, while they can never, ever justify the horrors of 11 September, are exploited by the terrorists to garner support for their warped philosophies.

At the first level, dealing with the immediate security threat, the Security Council has acknowledged, in its resolutions 1368 (2001) and 1373 (2001), the inherent right of individual and collective self-defence, as recognized under Article 51 of the Charter. The United States has suffered a most grievous assault, one of a long series of terrorist attacks against United States targets. Who can reasonably argue that the United States does not have the right to defend itself, in a targeted and proportionate manner, by bringing to justice those who planned, perpetrated and assisted in these outrages and who continue to threaten international peace and security?

Ireland is seeking to play its part in efforts to respond to the immediate terrorist threat by cooperating in police investigations and by opening our airspace and airports to aircraft operating in pursuit of Security Council resolution 1368 (2001). Ireland is not a member of a military alliance, but Ireland is not neutral in the struggle against international terrorism.

How, I ask, can any Member of the United Nations abstain from joining a collective effort to confront what is a global threat to international peace and security?

The fact that the Taliban regime in Afghanistan has, for the past two years, defied the demands of the Security Council to hand over Osama bin Laden, a main suspect in the terrorist campaign against the United States, surely justifies the refusal by virtually the entire international community to grant it diplomatic recognition.

But let me be clear. The Afghan people, who are already suffering terribly from the effects of drought, civil war and political instability, are not to blame for the actions of the Taliban and must not suffer the consequences of the Taliban's defiance. The international community is rightly mobilizing to deal with the worsening humanitarian situation facing the people of Afghanistan. For Ireland's part, my Government yesterday announced that we will allocate a further sum of over $3 million in response to the United Nations donor alert.

At the second level -- the need for legal action -- we must act in concert to deny international terrorism the means and capacity to launch attacks on both people and property. This can be achieved only through a strong commitment by all our Governments to the task, and with the widest possible cooperation between us.

The General Assembly has done excellent work over the years in addressing various aspects of terrorism. We already have 12 different international conventions that bear in some way or another on terrorism, including a most important one, the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism, adopted in 1999. We must -- my own Government included -- move quickly to ensure the ratification and implementation of those conventions.

We need to go further, for instance, by speeding up work on the draft comprehensive convention on terrorism that was initiated by India, and the convention on nuclear terrorism that has been proposed by the Russian Federation.

The Security Council has also been active. Ireland, as current President of the Security Council, strongly welcomes the adoption last Friday of resolution 1373 (2001). We will do all in our power to ensure that the committee to be established to monitor the implementation of the resolution by all Member States is operational as soon as possible. In this regard, I am hopeful that it will be possible to reach an early agreement on the structure and chairmanship of that committee.

At the third level, we must seek to eliminate the conflict, alienation and deprivation which is used by the godfathers of international terrorism to justify their actions. We must demonstrate that we can deal with these problems, either directly or indirectly, and resolve them through peaceful dialogue and cooperation.

Negotiation, conducted on a basis of mutual respect, leading to a just and peaceful settlement that embodies the legitimate rights of the parties, is the only effective means of conflict resolution. Our own experience in Ireland in this regard bears this out. The task which we face in Ireland is to move the political process forward at the earliest moment. It is imperative that all those with responsibilities live up to their obligations.

Successful negotiation involves compromise, which all too often is misrepresented as appeasement or surrender. We need to rehabilitate the concept of compromise and face down the forces of extremism. We have seen in many instances around the world how extremists, fearing compromise, will commit terrorist outrages precisely with the aim of blocking moves towards negotiations. We must not allow them to succeed in their aim.

The city of New York has hosted the Headquarters of the United Nations for over half a century. During that time, the city's services -- its police department and its fire department -- have ensured the physical safety of this Organization and of its Member States' delegations. We owe this city and its services a special debt of thanks. We know that the police and fire-fighters who went up the stairs of the World Trade Center to save others and thereby lost their own lives would have done the same had it been the United Nations building that was under attack, or any of the buildings that house our missions or our mission staff.

The police and fire-fighters of New York City made that sacrifice. They chose to put their lives on the line in rejecting the campaign of murder and destruction waged by the dark, secretive and cowardly men of terror. The families have sacrificed their loved ones in the most noble show of determination that the terrorists, whoever they are and wherever they hide, do not act for us, the people of the free world.

Let those images and those stories of bravery and heroism in the face of the most awful terror stand as a constant reminder that we, the members of this Assembly, have our own duty to perform to ensure that terrorists will find no welcome in any part of the globe. That duty is about action, and not words.

We heard Mayor Giuliani yesterday morning speak words of wisdom and leadership from this rostrum. On behalf of the Irish people, I can only say today that New York City has honoured us over the past weeks by its courage and nobility of action.

I saw with my own eyes the wreckage of the World Trade Center, in which are entombed the remains of more than 5,000 people. Out of this wreckage and this appalling destruction of human life, we the peoples of the United Nations must seek to rebuild the moral authority of our Organization. We must begin by leading the fight against international terrorism. The Irish Government and our delegation in New York stand ready to work throughout our presidency of the Security Council and beyond to meet this challenge. This will not be a short or an easy struggle, but for our sake and the sake of succeeding generations, it is one in which we simply must prevail.

Mrs. Ratsifandrihamanana (Madagascar)

From this rostrum, Madagascar, through me, associates itself with the greetings and tribute expressed to you, Sir, on the occasion of your assumption of the presidency of the fifty-sixth session of the General Assembly, as well as with those extended to your predecessor, Mr. Harri Holkeri. We reiterate our congratulations to Secretary-General Kofi Annan on his re-election, which attests to the trust and gratitude we feel for him.

Today, not long after the unprecedented tragedy that took place in this very city, at the heart of the most powerful state in America, tears are far from dry, wounds are far from healed, and anger is far from cooled. Humanity as a whole has been shaken.

Yesterday we listened attentively to the statement made by Mr. Rudolph Giuliani, Mayor of the city of New York. We share his sorrow and that of the people and the Government of the United States following the sudden death of thousands of innocent people, the massacre of our brothers and sisters, the suffering of thousands of orphaned children and the agony of bereaved fathers and mothers. We share in the resolve of the people and the Government of the United States to rebuild this legendary city and to restore a unique historical monument -- the symbol of prosperity and freedom and the reflection of strength in unity. It goes without saying that all countries, without exception, must resolutely align themselves with a global coalition against the universal scourge that is terrorism.

On behalf of the people and Government of Madagascar, I wish to reiterate our profound sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of these barbaric acts. Allow me to quote from the message addressed to President George Bush by the President of the Republic of Madagascar, Didier Ratsiraka, shortly after the disaster:

"I have learned with horror of the deadly attacks that have sent the entire American nation into mourning today. I wish to express my indignation and strong condemnation of these acts."

Echoing that message, from this rostrum I wish to express our unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms, in all its natures, wherever it is perpetrated and by whomever it is carried out.

We welcome the initiative to hold this meeting, which we consider to be extremely important. Madagascar is firmly convinced that our Organization has a pre-eminent role to play in the fight against international terrorism. As a guarantor of world security and as the supreme decision-making entity, the United Nations must fully and speedily involve itself in implementing sanctions against the perpetrators of terrorism.

At the Millennium Summit, we pledged to combat crime and terrorism, to abide by the relevant international conventions and to implement them forthwith. Madagascar fully associates itself with the resolution adopted on 12 September 2001, condemning the terrorist attacks on the United States of America, as well as Security Council resolution 1373 (2001), adopted on 28 September.

Pursuant to its principles, Madagascar has acceded, inter alia, to the International Convention for the Suppression of Terrorist Bombings, the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism and the Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism of the Organization of African Unity. Moreover, Madagascar has signed the Convention on Transnational Crime and its two Protocols.

At the regional level, Madagascar has always advocated that the Indian Ocean be established as a zone of peace by pursuing ongoing cooperation with our sister islands within the Indian Ocean Commission. A strategy has been identified that includes information exchange on major trafficking activities, plans to harmonize legislation and the conclusion of a protocol for an agreement establishing multilateral operational structures to prevent and punish transnational crime.

At the national level, security arrangements were strengthened immediately following the attacks of 11 September. These steps involve administrative buildings, diplomatic missions, port and airport infrastructures and coastal borders. Measures were taken to tighten control and monitoring of traffic throughout our national territory. The granting of entry visas and temporary residence visas is now the subject of heightened security. In order to guarantee the safety of air transport, we have extended insurance coverage for national airlines.

The upsurge in terrorist acts, the diverse methods used and the spread of the terrorist network require us to rethink our strategy in the common struggle. In this context, my delegation hopes to see the adoption, as soon as possible, of a comprehensive convention on international terrorism. This comprehensive convention will be based on the 12 existing multilateral conventions on the prevention and suppression of terrorism and will emphasize specific measures to be undertaken by member countries. International cooperation in police and judicial investigations must be strengthened. In this respect, the developing countries require sustained assistance and material aid.

As past experience has shown, the ability to undertake new operations depends on the availability of support funds. There is thus a need to establish a world fund to combat terrorism, which should be institutionalized and aligned like other United Nations funds. In this regard, we suggest that this matter be placed on the agenda of the next special session.

Recent studies have highlighted the close correlation between the spread of terrorism and drug trafficking. The laundering of profits from the drug trade is a principal source of financing for terrorism. That is why we must strengthen regulations in force in our respective countries and redouble our efforts to dismantle the networks to produce and distribute drugs.

Unfortunately, globalization has increased the development gap between South and North. This has certainly led to political, ideological, identity, cultural and economic frustrations, which are the probable sources of violence and mindless acts. Overhauling international policy on official development assistance to provide better assistance to poor countries has become more urgent than ever before.

The top priority remains the eradication of hotbeds of tension and conflict. We welcome the recent meeting between the President of the Palestinian Authority, Yasser Arafat, and Israeli Minister Shimon Peres. We hope to see a rapid and positive development of the situation in the Middle East.

In this United Nations Year of Dialogue Among Civilizations, learning tolerance is a sacred duty. The President of the Republic of Madagascar has proposed the establishment at the national level of a non-aggression pact among recognized religious institutions. This initiative could be significantly expanded in order to ensure a climate of trust and calm. No religion should ever be used to justify criminal acts, suicide or massacres of any kind. We must have the courage to denounce the proliferation of extremist and sectarian religious groups.

In conclusion, together we must cultivate intercultural dialogue; together we need to relearn how to listen to one another; together we must promote mutual understanding so that, together, we can better fight terrorism.

Mr. Hasmy (Malaysia)

The issue before us has become even more pertinent and urgent following the recent terrorist attacks against the United States that resulted in enormous loss of life and property. Malaysia strongly condemns the heinous acts of 11 September and fervently hopes that those responsible will finally be brought to justice. We share the grief of the people of the United States and other nations who have also lost their citizens. We, too, have lost a number of our own in the tragedy. The attacks were a shocking and cruel wake-up call for all of us to the danger of international terrorism, to which all countries are vulnerable, and which represents a most complex security challenge facing our global society today.

Mr. Hasmy (Malaysia)

Malaysia condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We regard all acts, methods and practices of terrorism as criminal acts that cannot be justified, regardless of the motivation of their perpetrators -- inasmuch as innocent, defenceless civilians become their victims. Terrorism is the violent manifestation of hate and intolerance. It threatens the right to life, liberty and security. It engenders chaos, fear and insecurity, as well as instability and uncertainty on all fronts.

In the wake of the horrific attacks on the United States, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, called for the convening of a world conference of leaders to discuss the issue of international terrorism because of the serious nature of this crime, which can affect all countries. While he understood the reasons for the ongoing planning to hunt down terrorist groups and stop terrorism, he was against the use of force that resulted in the victimization of innocent civilians. He felt that retaliatory actions through the use of force would not solve the problem, as they might only provoke counter-retaliation and were therefore fraught with risks to international peace and security.

In my Prime Minister's view, in order for global efforts to be effective in curbing terrorism, it is important for the international community to deal with the phenomenon objectively and impartially. The international conference, which should be organized by the United Nations, must examine the issue of terrorism comprehensively, including its definition, root causes and appropriate measures to deal with it. The measures that are now being contemplated outside the United Nations, including the use of armed force, will not solve the problem as long as issues related to the oppression of peoples in several parts of the world, particularly in Palestine, remain unresolved.

While Malaysia strongly supports efforts to curb terrorism, it is time for the world community to give serious attention to solving the problems which drive people to resort to terrorism. This is not to excuse, or mitigate the blame, for the use of terror -- there can be no excuse for or mitigating the gravity of such acts -- but to appreciate the complexity of the problem of international terrorism so that we are better able to combat it as effectively as possible and with all the means at our disposal.

Both the Organization of the Islamic Conference and the Non-Aligned Movement had called for the convening of an international conference under the auspices of the United Nations for the purpose of formulating a joint organized response to international terrorism. Regrettably, although this proposal was included in the agenda of the Ad Hoc Committee established by the General Assembly in resolution 51/210, no progress has been made so far in realizing it.

Given the enormity of the challenge confronting the international community, the convening of a United Nations conference on terrorism would serve the purpose of galvanizing a collective international effort based on a broad consensus at the highest possible level. It would provide the necessary political impetus for completing ongoing efforts at the United Nations to address the problem, in particular the elaboration of a comprehensive convention on international terrorism and a convention for the suppression of acts of nuclear terrorism. As we are all agreed that the recent terrorist attacks were directed against not only the United States but all States Members of this Organization, it is important that this all-out war against this menace to civilized life be waged here in the United Nations and involve all Member States, with each of us playing our full and appropriate role. We hope that this overwhelming expression of international solidarity and support for the anti-terrorist campaign will not be a mere flash in the pan, but the beginning of a serious, ongoing effort here at the United Nations.

The need for objectivity and impartiality is essential if terrorism is to be suppressed through the collaborative efforts of the international community, without any equivocation. This is particularly the case given the tendency in some quarters to associate terrorism with a particular group or community of people. The stereotyping of terrorism is not a constructive approach in dealing with the problem; it would do a great disservice to the cause that has united us in the wake of the recent tragic events. It would create mistrust among nations, when what is urgently required is the building of confidence among them, which is essential in the global effort to combat this menace. Terrorism is the common foe of the global community; it should not be coloured with ethnicity or any form of religious affinity.

As has already been said by previous speakers, terrorism has no religion or nationality. Terrorism serves only the selfish personal or group interests of the perpetrators and their sponsors. Herein lies the importance of the need to enhance greater understanding among the peoples of the world through a dialogue among civilizations, which, we sincerely hope, will be given higher priority in the agenda of the United Nations, particularly in the context of the current situation.

In addressing the problem of terrorism, there is a need for States to reflect on their own practices in dealing with internal security situations. Actions carried out by the security apparatus of a State in the name of security, but which create widespread fear and apprehension among the civilian population, are as inhumane and as devastating as any other form of terrorism. In taking security measures, States must be guided by the principle of proportionate response. This is especially relevant in the context of the current situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, where excessive force has been used to intimidate people fighting for their rights. Such use of force by States, resulting in massive loss of life, injury and extreme hardship for the civilian population, must be viewed with the same contempt reserved for acts of violence carried out by terrorist groups.

In confronting the challenge before us, my delegation strongly supports the ongoing efforts in the Sixth Committee and the General Assembly to elaborate a comprehensive convention on international terrorism. However, in crafting such a convention, it is important to arrive at a clear and universally agreed definition of terrorism. Without an agreed definition, it would be difficult to formulate or enforce international agreements to combat this scourge. Acts of pure terrorism, involving attacks against innocent civilian populations -- which cannot be justified under any circumstances -- should be differentiated from the legitimate struggles of peoples under colonial or alien domination or foreign occupation for self-determination and national liberation, as recognized by the relevant resolutions of the United Nations and international declarations. All States Members of this Organization that gained their freedom through a liberation struggle or war of independence would fully appreciate and support that inherent, inalienable and legitimate right. We earnestly hope that the urgency of the current international efforts to combat terrorism will spur on negotiations on the draft convention during this session of the General Assembly.

No discussion of international terrorism would be complete without a discussion of the threat posed by nuclear terrorism. The recent daring terrorist attacks against the United States, using sophisticated methods, have considerably heightened this concern and demand a serious response on our part to the inherent risks of nuclear terrorism. While, ultimately, the most effective way of preventing acts of nuclear terrorism lies in the total elimination of nuclear weapons -- which should remain our long-term objective -- the early adoption of an international convention for the suppression of acts of nuclear terrorism would be an important first step towards eliminating that threat. Equally important would be the strengthening of all existing treaties, agreements and norms aimed at reducing and ultimately eliminating nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.

The strengthening of international cooperation is essential if we are to succeed in our common but difficult quest. The tasks ahead of us are enormously challenging, requiring of all of us national, regional and international efforts and cooperation aimed at, among other things, apprehending and bringing to justice the perpetrators; concluding agreements and other cooperative arrangements towards that end; implementing the relevant international legal instruments which we are parties to; and denying asylum to terrorists and freezing their assets. Malaysia will do its part. We will support all efforts aimed at promoting international cooperation in combating terrorism in accordance with the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter. Security Council resolution 1373 (2001), adopted last Friday, provides an important framework for this cooperation.