Embassy of the Republic of Suriname, Washington, DC

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Statement by Mr. Johan Ceder
National Security Adviser
Republic of Suriname

At the "First Meeting of National Points of Contact to
the Inter American Committee against Terrorism"

Washington, D.C.
14 July 2003

Mr. Chairman,
At the outset, I would like to applaud this initiative of the OAS, Inter American Committee against Terrorism, to convene this important first meeting of National Points of Contact. The threat of terrorism has indeed grown to such proportions that cooperation and a collective approach have become pivotal. The entrance into force of the Inter American Convention against Terrorism last week is a milestone that the OAS can certainly look back on with great pride. We have no doubt that this instrument will soon prove to be the most effective regional tool in the fight against terrorism. Terrorism is not a new phenomenon, but the most recent expressions of this scourge have forced the entire world community to come together and seek effective and fundamental solutions to this problem. This Convention is the outcome and result of our combined efforts.

Suriname has, as many others, positioned itself to meet the many and difficult security challenges facing the region and our hemisphere. We have decided to participate in all regional efforts with a renewed sense of competence and professionalism. The Government of Suriname stands ready to fully participate in the activities on the CICTE agenda, for it is fully aware that it cannot tackle all challenges single handedly and knows its responsibility regarding the most pressing security issues of the Americas.

Suriname is committed to the fight against terrorism and will continue to work closely together with the OAS and the United Nations in this fight. It is essential, however, to see to it that all human rights are respected in this process and to also deal with the root causes that could eventually lead to terrorism.

CICTE has proven to be a key player in the regional activities regarding the ongoing fight against terrorism. We are most optimistic about this Committee's future and we will continue to support its future initiatives.