Statement by H.E. Mr. Tofig F. Musayev

Permanent Representative of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations

at the plenary meeting of the United Nations General Assembly under agenda item 118:

“The United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy”

1 July 2026

Mr. Chair,

At the outset, I would like to join previous speakers in expressing appreciation to the Permanent Representatives of Finland and Morocco for their dedicated efforts in facilitating and guiding the negotiations on the Ninth Review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.

Mr. Chair,

Azerbaijan strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Terrorism can never be justified under any circumstances or pretext. We stand firmly with the international community in the global fight against terrorism, recognizing that its eradication is essential for the maintenance of regional and international peace and security.

Despite tangible progress in the development of international law, the promotion of cooperation and coordination, and the strengthening of States' capacities, terrorism continues to pose both potential and immediate threats in many regions and countries. This menace has become increasingly diverse in its geographical reach, ideological underpinnings and operational methods, evolving further under the influence of information and communication technologies, as well as other new and emerging technologies.

Furthermore, in certain parts of the world, including our region, terrorism has been employed as a method of warfare to advance territorial claims, fuel separatism and support aggression against sovereign States. In this regard, it is important to reaffirm respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence and unity of all States. Strict compliance by all States with their international counter-terrorism obligations remains critical to ensuring, inter alia, that their territories are not used for terrorist, separatist or other related activities.

Mr. Chair,

An effective global response requires not only disrupting immediate threats, but also addressing the root causes and conditions conducive to terrorism and violent extremism. Greater efforts are needed to counter threats driven by xenophobia, racism, ethno-nationalism and other forms of intolerance. Equally important is investing in education for peace and promoting dialogue, particularly among youth.

Strengthening national and international legal frameworks is essential to detect, disrupt and interdict all forms of financial support for terrorism and violent extremism. This includes preventing the misuse of non-governmental, non-profit and charitable organizations for the financing of such activities. We note the particular emphasis placed on this issue in the resolution.

Bringing perpetrators of terrorist acts to justice must remain a priority, with zero tolerance for impunity. In this regard, it is equally important that amnesty or any other form of early release not be granted to those responsible for terrorist acts. Azerbaijan strongly supports the provisions of the resolution relating to accountability, particularly those rejecting attempts to justify or glorify terrorist acts and calling for measures to prohibit incitement to commit such acts and to deny safe haven to their perpetrators.

Furthermore, continued solidarity with, and support for, victims and survivors of terrorism, as well as affected States, must remain a humanitarian and human rights imperative.

As many delegations have noted, the fight against terrorism cannot and must not be used to target any religion or culture. This principle must remain an integral part of any counter-terrorism strategy.
 

In conclusion, the effective implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy remains a priority and must be pursued in good faith and through genuine international cooperation, partnership and solidarity.

I thank you.