G20 Parliamentary Speakers Pledge to Combat Terror, Violent Extremism – News18

The speakers of parliaments of G20 countries on Friday pledged to utilise their legislative, budgetary and oversight functions to play their part in combating terrorism and violent extremism.

In a joint statement adopted at the Parliament-20 Summit here, they also condemned terrorism in all forms and manifestations, including those on the basis of xenophobia, racism and other forms of intolerance, or in the name of religion or belief.

“The unanimous adoption of the Joint Declaration at P20 Bharat exemplifies the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. As public representatives, we pledge to collaborate for a human-centric, prosperous and harmonious future. Many congratulations to all the delegates for their support,” Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who chaired the P20 Summit, said on X.

The joint statement by P20 leaders comes against the backdrop of the lingering war in Ukraine and the recent outbreak of conflict between Israel and the Hamas.

The parliamentary leaders said terrorism constituted one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.

“We strongly condemn all terrorist acts against critical infrastructure, including critical energy facilities, and against other vulnerable targets. All acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed,” the joint statement said.

It said effective counter-terrorism measures, support for victims of terrorism and the protection of human rights were not conflicting goals, but complementary and mutually reinforcing.

“A holistic approach on the basis of international law can effectively counter terrorism. Efforts to increase the effectiveness of international cooperation should be strengthened to deny terrorist groups safe haven, freedom of operations, movement and recruitment, as well as financial, material or political support,” the joint statement said.

“In the light of our legislative, budgetary and oversight functions, we pledge to play our role in combating terrorism and violent extremism,” it said.

The presiding officers welcomed the comprehensive and constructive dialogue held during the G20 Leaders’ Summit and India’s G20 Presidency, focusing on the issues related to accelerating progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), technological transformation and inclusive digital economy.

They also welcomed discussions on global economic recovery, food and energy security, addressing climate change, inclusive energy transition, promotion of sustainable production and consumption patterns, reinvigorating multilateralism, peace-building, counter-terrorism, global skill mapping, disaster risk reduction, and strengthening global health architecture.

“In view of the constructive discussions held during the ninth P20 and experience gained at the previous P20s, we reaffirm our commitment to continue our joint work to make an effective and meaningful parliamentary contribution to the G20 process, as appreciated by the G20 Leaders,” the joint statement said.

It said the parliaments will continue to engage in parliamentary diplomacy and dialogue in relevant fora as a catalyst for promoting international peace, prosperity and harmony, including supporting the peaceful resolution of conflicts and disputes.

The parliamentary leaders also congratulated the Parliament of India for passage of the women’s reservation bill, ensuring reservation of one-third seats in the Lok Sabha and in state legislatures.

The joint statement adopted seven paragraphs, including those referring to the Ukraine conflict, from the G20 Leaders Declaration held in Delhi last month.

“It is recognised, that due to their constitutional positions or other factors, certain Speakers cannot directly associate themselves with substantive political statements, and therefore, should not be seen as indicating specific support for all sections,” read a note at the end of the joint statement.

“Nonetheless, on behalf of their Chambers, they recognize the importance of the issues raised and the intentions of their colleagues in proposing particular ways forward,” it said.

(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – PTI)