Africa needs help in fight against terrorism

UNITED NATIONS - China said on Monday that efforts should be made to help African countries build their capacity in the fight against terrorism, calling for support and assistance to Africa "without any attached political conditions."

Li Baodong, China's permanent representative to the UN, made the remarks at an open debate of the UN Security Council on peace and security in Africa, which is themed on the challenges of the fight against terrorism in Africa.

"Terrorism organizations take advantage of the political and security turmoil in some parts of Africa and incessantly spread their activities to the continent in an attempt to establish a new safe haven there," Li said, pointing out that the terrorist activities and ethnic and religious conflicts, which are interwoven in Africa, affect each other, further intensify the arms proliferation and cross-border organized crimes.

The Chinese ambassador underlined that limited resources and capacity are the biggest restriction of African countries to combat terrorism.

"We urge the international community, the developed countries in particular, to redouble the efforts in helping African countries promote capacity-building in justice and security sectors, strengthen the exchange of experience and information sharing, and support the relevant efforts of regional and sub- regional organizations," he said.

Li also emphasized that the security turmoil in parts of Africa is the "hotbed" for terrorism and urged the international community to be objective and fair, comprehensively and proactively support the African countries and regional organizations in their efforts of maintaining regional peace and security.

"The international community should pay good attention to the economic and social development in Africa, effectively honor their commitment and actively provide the assistance to African countries without any attached political conditions," he said.

The Chinese envoy reiterated the attitude of China, which is also a victim of terrorism, in supporting African countries in their efforts to combat terrorist activities.

"We will continue to do what we can to provide support and assistance to African countries to jointly face the threat the terrorism has brought to Africa and the world at large," Li added.