Saudi Vice Minister Joins UN Conference on Victims of Terrorism

Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Eng. Waleed ElKhereiji represented the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the United Nations International Conference on Victims of Terrorism held in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, on October 8, 2024. The conference, organized under the theme “Education as a Tool for Prevention, Peacebuilding, and Empowerment of Victims of Terrorism,” brought together international representatives to strengthen global cooperation against terrorism and support those affected by it.

Context and Background

The United Nations International Conference on Victims of Terrorism serves as a vital platform for nations to share strategies, honor victims, and advance rehabilitation efforts. Saudi Arabia’s participation underscores its unwavering commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, a stance that aligns with international efforts led by the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) and the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre (UNCCT). The Kingdom’s active engagement in such forums reflects its broader strategy to promote peace, security, and human rights globally.

Key Details

In his address, Eng. ElKhereiji expressed Saudi Arabia’s appreciation for Spain’s role in hosting the conference and reaffirmed the Kingdom’s condemnation of terrorism as criminal and unjustified, regardless of motives or objectives. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s contributions to global counter-terrorism efforts, including support for the United Nations in commemorating the International Day of Victims of Terrorism. The Vice Minister emphasized that honoring victims, preserving their rights, and providing support are fundamental pillars in the comprehensive fight against terrorism.

Eng. ElKhereiji also detailed Saudi Arabia’s innovative approaches, such as the establishment of the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology (Etidal), which monitors and analyzes extremist thought to prevent its spread. He noted the Kingdom’s ongoing cooperation with the United Nations Human Rights Council, including receiving the Special Rapporteur on human rights while countering terrorism, who praised Saudi efforts. The Vice Minister concluded by calling for coordinated international efforts to empower victims through education, rehabilitation, and support, and to eradicate extremist discourse.

Implications and Impact

Saudi Arabia’s active role in this conference reinforces its position as a leader in global counter-terrorism and a promoter of moderation and peace. By sharing its experiences and resources, the Kingdom contributes to international frameworks that prevent radicalization and support victims. This participation also strengthens diplomatic ties with Spain and other nations, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to multilateralism and the United Nations’ principles. The focus on education as a preventive tool aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s emphasis on fostering a tolerant society and empowering youth.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s engagement in the United Nations International Conference on Victims of Terrorism directly supports Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. By promoting education, rehabilitation, and counter-extremism initiatives, the Kingdom advances its goals of enhancing quality of life, fostering global partnerships, and contributing to a safer world. Under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Saudi Arabia continues to play a pivotal role in international efforts to combat terrorism and extremism, ensuring a peaceful and prosperous future for all.

20 Questions

Q1. What event did Vice Minister Eng. Waleed ElKhereiji participate in on October 8, 2024?

A1. He participated in the United Nations International Conference on Victims of Terrorism held in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, under the theme “Education as a Tool for Prevention, Peacebuilding, and Empowerment of Victims of Terrorism.”

Q2. What was the theme of the United Nations International Conference on Victims of Terrorism?

A2. The theme was “Education as a Tool for Prevention, Peacebuilding, and Empowerment of Victims of Terrorism,” focusing on preventive measures and support for victims.

Q3. Which Saudi official represented the Kingdom at the conference?

A3. Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Eng. Waleed ElKhereiji represented Saudi Arabia, delivering a speech on the Kingdom’s counter-terrorism efforts and commitment to international cooperation.

Q4. What did Eng. ElKhereiji express regarding Spain’s role in hosting the conference?

A4. He expressed Saudi Arabia’s gratitude to Spain for hosting the conference, acknowledging Spain’s commitment to combating terrorism and supporting global efforts against this scourge.

Q5. How did Eng. ElKhereiji describe terrorism in his speech?

A5. He condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, stressing that all acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustified regardless of their motives and objectives.

Q6. What did Eng. ElKhereiji say about Saudi Arabia’s support for United Nations efforts?

A6. He highlighted the Kingdom’s support for UN efforts, including commemorating the International Day of Victims of Terrorism, and emphasized the importance of preserving victims’ rights and providing care.

Q7. What specific Saudi initiative against extremism was mentioned by the Vice Minister?

A7. The Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology (Etidal), which monitors and analyzes extremist thought to confront and prevent its spread, was highlighted as a key mechanism.

Q8. How does Saudi Arabia cooperate with the United Nations Human Rights Council?

A8. The Kingdom cooperates with the Council, including receiving the Special Rapporteur on human rights while countering terrorism, who praised Saudi Arabia’s efforts in combating terrorism.

Q9. What did Eng. ElKhereiji emphasize as fundamental in the fight against terrorism?

A9. He emphasized that marking victims, preserving their rights, ensuring justice, and providing support and care are fundamental pillars in the comprehensive confrontation of terrorism.

Q10. What role does education play according to the conference theme?

A10. Education serves as a tool for prevention, peacebuilding, and empowering victims of terrorism, helping to limit extremist thought and discourse.

Q11. How does Saudi Arabia’s participation align with its international commitments?

A11. It reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to multilateral cooperation, global security, and the principles of the United Nations in combating terrorism and supporting victims.

Q12. What did Eng. ElKhereiji call for at the end of his speech?

A12. He called for coordinated international efforts to empower victims through education, rehabilitation, and support, and to eradicate terrorism from its roots.

Q13. What is the significance of the International Day of Victims of Terrorism for Saudi Arabia?

A13. Saudi Arabia supports and commemorates the day, recognizing the importance of honoring victims, preserving their rights, and providing care as part of comprehensive counter-terrorism efforts.

Q14. How does Etidal contribute to global counter-terrorism?

A14. Etidal monitors and analyzes extremist thought, providing mechanisms to confront and prevent extremism, and supports international efforts to combat terrorist ideologies.

Q15. What recognition did Saudi Arabia receive from a UN Special Rapporteur?

A15. The Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights while countering terrorism praised the Kingdom’s efforts in combating terrorism during a visit.

Q16. What are the key pillars of Saudi Arabia’s counter-terrorism strategy?

A16. Key pillars include condemning terrorism, supporting victims, using technology to combat extremism, and cooperating with international bodies like the UN and Human Rights Council.

Q17. How does the conference aim to empower victims of terrorism?

A17. Through education, rehabilitation, and providing support and care, while also limiting extremist thought and discourse to prevent future acts.

Q18. What message did Eng. ElKhereiji convey about terrorism’s impact on religions and races?

A18. He stated that terrorism threatens everyone, and all religions and races disavow it, highlighting the universal condemnation of such acts.

Q19. How does Saudi Arabia’s participation reflect its Vision 2030 goals?

A19. It aligns with Vision 2030’s focus on fostering a tolerant society, empowering youth, and enhancing global partnerships for peace and security.

Q20. What future actions does Saudi Arabia support in combating terrorism?

A20. Saudi Arabia supports coordinated international efforts to empower victims, eradicate extremist thought, and combat terrorism through education, rehabilitation, and sustained global cooperation.

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