Minister of Foreign Affairs says twin island nation will work with countries across the Middle East to counter acts of terrorism

Dubai, United Arab Emirates -Sunday, December 10th 2017 [ AETOS Wire ]

Antigua & Barbuda has pledged to step up its cooperation with countries across the Middle East on the region’s fight against the war on terror, its Minister of Foreign Affairs said at a gathering held in the Red Sea resort of Aqaba hosted by King Abdullah II of Jordan and chaired by President of Nigeria, attended by presidents of several West African countries, U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, senior officials from Europe as well as representatives of international organizations.

Speaking at this high-level conference in Jordan, Charles Fernandez, Minster of Foreign Affairs, Tourism and Immigration of Antigua & Barbuda said terrorism represented the greatest threat to world peace and security. Antigua and Barbuda has not only boosted its intelligence capabilities in the past few years but has always been at the forefront of its readiness to combat terrorism in all forms and manifestations, he added.

"We recognise terrorism, violent extremism, separatism and sectarianism as the gravest challenges to the peace, security and economic development of the world. Antigua & Barbuda stands with the countries of the Middle East to fight terrorism," added Mr Fernandez.

"Terrorism is not a country specific issue and should not be associated with any religion or ethnic group.  It is a global concern and needs immediate action. Whether it is in the form of intelligence, leak of information, or disruption of financial controls, the fight against terrorism is a major priority in today's time. Antigua & Barbuda is committed to standing hand in hand with our partner countries to work together to prevent and suppress terrorist acts,” he added.

The two day summit is the latest in a series launched by Jordan’s monarch to reach out to other nations and help coordinate the fight against terrorism.

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