RIYADH, 8 February 2005 — The world cannot succeed in defeating global terrorism without Saudi Arabia’s victory over terrorism and extremism on its own soil, the leader of the US delegation to the International Counterterrorism Conference, Frances Fragos Townsend said.
Townsend, the US homeland security adviser, added that Washington stands with the Saudis in the fight and that the conference was a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to eliminate terrorism.
Townsend pointed out that while the media had focused on terrorist acts and violent confrontations, the Saudi government and the press had begun to educate Saudis about the dangers of extremism. She said, “In a broader context, I believe that Saudi Arabia’s efforts to improve the economy, commerce, education and political participation will in time provide other constructive outlets for young Saudi citizens.” She stressed that these efforts would be the foundation for the Kingdom’s long-term strategy.
“Defeating terrorism demands strong leadership, shared responsibility and accountability and a commitment to change,” she noted. “Saudi Arabia’s leaders understand that the Saudi people expect law enforcement and security forces to find and capture violent extremists.”
