Counter-terrorism cooperation backed by MEPs

Counter-terrorism cooperation between the EU and the League of Arab States was backed by the European Parliament (EP) on Thursday.

Terrorism poses a direct threat to all countries and all people, regardless of their ethnic background, religion or belief, MEP's said. As such, it can be countered effectively only by a global alliance, in full compliance with international law, fundamental values and international human rights standards, they added.

MEPs stressed the need to tackle the underlying factors of radicalization and to take a comprehensive approach to fighting terrorism. Counter-terrorism measures cannot work effectively without the close cooperation of the countries of origin, they added.

However, to ensure proper oversight, MEPs also asked that the recently-signed memorandum of understanding between the European External Action Service and the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States on counter-terrorism cooperation be made public.

The text voted on by MEPs stresses the importance of co-operation between the EU and the League of Arab States "to promote, protect and uphold all human rights for all." It also calls on Arab countries and EU member states to protect religious minorities in the Arab world and give full effect to EU guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief. Endit