Dutch FM calls for more efforts to tackle anti Muslim hatred in Europe
Date
1/21/2016 7:39:59 AM
(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BRUSSELS Jan 21 (KUNA) -- The European Parliament discussed Thursday in Strasbourg the best way to tackle the increasing terrorism threat. During the debate many speakers stressed the importance of exchanging information as well as the need to strengthen border controls and called on EU member states to step up collaboration. Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders whose country holds the current EU Presidency said "judging from recent events the terrorist threat seems to be increasing in the European Union but also in its vicinity as the recent attacks in Istanbul JakartaOuagadougou and in Charsadda Pakistan have shown. "As Presidency we will do anything within our powers to improve the Union's capacity counter this threat and to protect our citizens" he said.He added "an EU approach is needed taking into account that over 5000 citizens have left to fight for terrorist organisations in Iraq and Syria. Concerning integration and non-discrimination we should create opportunities for all. " "We should do much more on tolerance and anti-Muslim hatred further inter-religious dialogue and communicate our values" he stressed.On his part Dimitris Avramopoulos EU commissioner for migration and home affairs said " we have to be realistic; the terrorist threat in the EU is high. The terrorist threat is there. We are determined to respond with resolve and resilience and at the same time to uphold our values of tolerance democracy and respect of fundamental rights." He noted that "2016 will be the year where we go after terrorist money. We need to deprive terrorists of their financial resources. In early February we will put our ideas forward with a concrete timetable." "On a personal basis I can tell you I'm not happy with the cooperation so far. Unfortunately most of the (EU) member states keep the best of the information for themselves" added Avramopoulos. (end) nk.ajs
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