Vitoria-Gasteiz, October 9, 2024 - Saudi Arabia's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Eng. Waleed ElKhereiji, took part in the United Nations International Conference on Victims of Terrorism held on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain. The conference, organized under the theme "Education as a Tool for Prevention, Peacebuilding, and Empowerment of Victims of Terrorism," brought together global leaders and experts to address the ongoing challenges posed by terrorism and explore educational strategies to combat extremist ideologies.
In his address, Eng. ElKhereiji expressed Saudi Arabia's appreciation for the efforts undertaken by the United Nations, particularly through the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism and the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre. He also extended gratitude to Spain for hosting the conference, acknowledging it as a demonstration of the international community's united commitment to eliminating terrorism. Eng. ElKhereiji emphasized that terrorism poses a universal threat, transcending borders, religions, and races, and must be eradicated at its roots.
Reiterating the Kingdom’s steadfast condemnation of terrorism in all its forms, Eng. ElKhereiji stressed that terrorist acts, regardless of their motives or objectives, are criminal and unjustified. He highlighted Saudi Arabia's active role in supporting the United Nations’ efforts to commemorate the International Day of Victims of Terrorism. According to ElKhereiji, honoring the victims, ensuring justice, and providing support are key components in the global fight against terrorism.
Eng. ElKhereiji also outlined the Kingdom's initiatives in combating terrorism and extremism, specifically through the use of technology. He pointed to the establishment of the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology (Etidal), a specialized institution focused on monitoring, analyzing, and preventing extremist ideologies from taking root. The center is a core part of Saudi Arabia’s strategy to address radicalization.
The Vice Minister emphasized the Kingdom’s ongoing collaboration with international mechanisms, particularly within the framework of the United Nations Human Rights Council. He noted that Saudi Arabia had welcomed the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights while countering terrorism, who commended the Kingdom’s significant contributions to the global fight against terrorism.
Concluding his speech, Eng. ElKhereiji underscored the necessity of coordinated global efforts to empower victims of terrorism. He highlighted the importance of education, rehabilitation, and comprehensive support systems in preventing extremist ideologies from spreading. He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to working closely with international partners to eliminate terrorism from its roots and provide lasting peace and security.
