UN council urged to study 2-pronged approach vs terrorism

Manila, Philippines - The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has called on the UN Security Council to consider a “ two-pronged approach” in building the counter terrorism capacities of nations, the Philippine Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York said.

In a report to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) last week, the mission said that during the preparation of the regional statement, the Philippines pushed for the strengthening of intercultural and interreligious dialogue in suppressing terrorism and radicalization.                                      

The UN Security Council last week acknowledged the need to intensify cooperation with regional and sub-regional organizations to enhance the capacity of member states to address the threat of terrorism.

The council held dialogues for the implementation of Resolution 1373, a wide-ranging declaration on improving international cooperation against terrorism.                               

“In as much as the hard approach is important to counter terrorism, the soft approach included in a much broader strategy is also vital. These include efforts to spur development, to increase access to education and to bring nations and peoples together in greater understanding and respect,” said Philippine Permanent Representative Libran Cabactulan.