India, Brazil, South Africa Unite Against Global Terrorism

In a meeting at the United Nations General Assembly, foreign ministers from India, Brazil, and South Africa called for coordinated efforts to counter terrorism. They highlighted the need for collective action against UN-designated terrorist groups including Al-Qaeda and ISIS, and advocated for the adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. The ministers emphasized respect for international law in their fight against terrorism and proposed reforms in the UN Security Council’s sanctioning procedures to enhance effectiveness and transparency.

During the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly held in New York, India, Brazil, and South Africa emphasized the necessity of a coordinated global approach to combat terrorism. External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S. Jaishankar, along with Brazil’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mauro Vieira and South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, gathered to advocate for comprehensive actions against all entities marked as terrorists by the United Nations. Their collective statement explicitly identified key organizations such as Al-Qaeda, ISIS/Daesh, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, and Jaish-e-Mohammad among those to be targeted. The ministers called for prompt adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism within the UNGA framework, and they stressed the imperative of enhancing counter-terrorism collaboration among their nations. Acknowledging the authority of the UN Security Council in sanctioning terrorist actions, they advocated for reforms in the operational methods of the Security Council Sanctions Committees to bolster their effectiveness and transparency. In their declaration, the ministers denounced terrorism in all its forms, urged for the dismantling of terrorist havens globally, and reinforced that all counter-terrorism efforts must respect international law and human rights. They appealed for the establishment of an inclusive international counter-terrorism framework that aligns with international law principles, reiterating the need for all countries to fulfill their responsibilities in preventing and combating terrorism, including addressing the cross-border movement and financing of terrorist groups.

The gathering of the ministers from India, Brazil, and South Africa highlights the shared commitment of these countries to tackle global terrorism. Known as the IBSA Dialogue Forum, this trilateral platform was formalized in 2003 to foster cooperation among these diverse, multicultural nations. The emergence of terrorism as a widespread hazard underscores the need for a united international front. With organizations like Al-Qaeda and ISIS continuing to pose significant threats, the emphasis on a cooperative response through the United Nations is essential. Moreover, the ministers recognize that addressing the root causes and funding sources of terrorism is critical to any effective counter-terrorism strategy.

The meeting of the IBSA foreign ministers represents a significant step toward enhanced international cooperation against terrorism. By prioritizing collective action and reforming the United Nations’ counter-terrorism framework, these nations aim to build a robust response to the threats posed by various terrorist groups. Through their commitment to mutual action and respect for international law, India, Brazil, and South Africa are poised to lead efforts in fostering a safer global environment.

Original Source: www.aninews.in