New York (VNA) – A Vietnamese diplomat reiterated that the country has been consistent in its condemnation of terrorist attacks in whatever form, for whatever motive and by whomsoever, including those committed with the pretext of defending democracy and human rights.

The statement was made by Ambassador Le Luong Minh, Permanent Representative to the UN Security Council, at the council’s open debate on “Threats to International Peace and Security Caused by Terrorist Acts” in New York on March 19.

In his speech, Minh stressed that international terrorism continues to be one of the most serious threats to international peace and security. “It constitutes a flagrant violation of international law, endangers the territorial integrity and stability of States, causes severe destruction to the infrastructure of many countries and horrifying losses and injuries to innocent people,” he said.

He upheld the view that the international fight against terrorism must be strengthened in a comprehensive and balanced manner, in compliance with international law, particularly the principles of respect for national sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference in the internal affairs of states.

According to Minh, phenomena such as political, economic and social inequalities, double standards, selectivity as well as the use of force in international relations, all creating conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism need be addressed.

He also said root causes of international terrorism such as absolute poverty, political and social injustice should be excluded.

The Vietnamese representative highlighted the leading role of the UN in the fight against international terrorism, especially in promoting international cooperation and complementing member states’ efforts.

Regarding anti-terrorism resolutions adopted by the Security Council, including the establishment of institutions to assist the member states’ implementation of these obligations, Minh affirmed Viet Nam ’s support to the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) in its dialogues with member states to identify ways of improving their counter-terrorism capacity and its efforts to provide them with technical assistance.

In August last year, CTED undertook a visit to Viet Nam where it had fruitful discussions with Vietnamese counter-terrorism agencies. The Vietnamese diplomat affirmed the country’s willingness to continue cooperation with CTED.