Thank you, Madam Chair,
Terrorism and violent extremism continue to pose a threat to the security of our region. This was again demonstrated by the appalling terrorist attack in Moscow last month. Norway was shocked by the attack and condemns it in the strongest possible ways. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.
Madam Chair,
All evidence indicates that the Islamic State is responsible for these atrocities, as the United States had warned about early on, as was just recalled in the statement by the US.
We deplore Russia’s attempts to utilize this tragedy to the benefit of its own twisted narrative, to underpin propaganda and disinformation in order to continue its relentless, illegal, illegitimate war against Ukraine. This war is causing devastating attacks conducted by the Russian Federation, which are terrorizing thousands of innocent civilians in Ukraine.
Madam Chair,
Rather, this meeting could be an occasion to reminds us that, even in times of interstate war, the threat from non-state actors remains significant.
A comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy requires a multi-faceted approach that includes international cooperation. By adhering to the rule of law and democratic standards, governments can undermine the narratives used by terrorist organizations to justify their actions and recruit members.
Norway condemns terrorism in all its form and supports international efforts to combat it, including within the OSCE. The operationalization of the OSCE guidelines is carried out in close collaboration with relevant participating States and executed by several of the OSCE’s field missions. It is imperative that this work continues.
I thank you.