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Chair
of the Special FIPA Group on Terrorism
It was agreed at that time that the main objective of the group would be to work to find cooperative political solutions to fight this scourge. Specifically, it would concentrate on political action to change legislation in member countries so that they can deal with terrorism. We member parliamentarians of FIPA have joined together in this struggle. We consider it our responsibility to ensure the security of our fellow citizens and, at the same time, to protect the democratic process, which is the direct victim of terrorism. We join in a spirit of cooperation and tireless commitment to fight this scourge. The special group on terrorism met for the first time in Mexico on May 21, with 16 parliamentarians representing 13 countries in the hemisphere. We had an important discussion that will enable us to work toward very specific goals: to critically review the legislation and cooperation agreements in the hemisphere, to promote appropriate changes that will help eradicate the various forms of terrorism; to promote, in particular, ratification of the Inter-American Convention on Terrorism; to consult our colleagues in the hemisphere about their proposed recommendations for the OAS Special Conference on Security. Finally, we expressed our solidarity with the people and government of Colombia in dealing with the deplorable acts of violence going on there. Coordinated and informed action is essential in this struggle and the participation of all is key. The virtual parliament of FIPA is a forum that will help us promote this necessary participation and sharing of experiences to achieve our objectives more effectively. With this in mind, I call on interested parliamentarians to contribute on this topic, making good use of this invaluable communication tool. I reiterate my commitment to do all I can so that FIPA makes a substantial contribution to eradicating terrorism in the hemisphere, in all its forms. Let us continue to work in the spirit of FIPA; let us make this a new opportunity to strengthen free dialogue and a place where parliamentarians of all political stripes can meet. The threat of terrorism calls for our utmost dedication, unity and enthusiastic participation. Welcome!
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Important
Notice © 2003 FIPA - Inter- Parliamentary
Forum of the Americas. All Rights Reserved.
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FIPA's
special working group on terrorism was created and mandated by the General
Assembly at the Second Plenary held in Panama City in February 2003.