41 countries pledge to fight terrorism unitedly
26 Nov 2017
Saudi Gazette report
Riyadh -- Defense Ministers of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) affirmed here on Sunday that terrorism represents a constant and growing challenge and threat to peace, security and regional and international stability as it has transcended all borders.
In a communique issued after their inaugural meeting, they said terrorism has become deadlier than ever before, particularly in the Islamic world.
The Ministers of Defense emphasized the resolve of their countries to coordinate and unite their efforts to ward off the dangers of terrorism and take a stand against it. They also emphasized the importance of joint efforts and comprehensive strategic planning to deal with the threat of terrorism and put an end to those who seek to fuel conflicts and sectarianism.
Cognizant of the importance of activating the fight against terrorism across the various domains, the IMCTC Ministers of Defense Council agreed to counter extremist ideology, combat terrorism on communication channels, counter terror financing and fight terrorism militarily.
The ministers commended the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in leading the formation of the Coalition and agreed to secure the Center headquarters for the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition in Riyadh, the Chairman of the IMCTC Ministers of Defense Council will appoint the Secretary General (President of the Center) and the Military Commander of the Coalition.
The Chairman will approve the Center’s procedural rules, annual budget and regulations. The Chairman will make arrangements for the Coalition member countries to nominate their delegates to the Center. The Chairman will enable the Coalition to initiate partnerships with international organizations, highlighting its role in the fight against terrorism internationally. The Chairman will take relevant decisions he sees fit for achieving the Coalition’s objectives.
The IMCTC Ministers of Defense Council will meet annually and whenever necessary to follow up on the strategies, policies, plans and programs to achieve the IMCTC’s objectives, and to review the reports submitted by the IMCTC Counter Terrorism Center, in order to pursue concerted efforts in various areas to combat terrorism.