Fact Sheet: Terrorism

Following the September 11 terrorist attacks (which also led to the postponement of CHOGM), the Commonwealth has taken a firm collective stance in contributing to the fight against terrorism. A Leaders' Statement on Terrorism was issued in October 2002. Following this a Commonwealth Ad Hoc Committee on Terrorism was established and has met twice at officials level. It will meet at Ministerial level in January 2002. Australia has been asked to chair the Ministerial meeting by the Commonwealth Secretary-General. Ministers' are expected to agree on recommendations to put to leaders at CHOGM for further Commonwealth cooperation and action on terrorism, in support of UN led international efforts.

Australia sees terrorism as an important agenda item for the forthcoming CHOGM. We support the Commonwealth building cooperation amongst members to reinforce the broader international effort and political momentum on this matter. It is also important that any Commonwealth activities be well targeted, building on existing programs (such as in international legaql cooperation) and not duplicative of UN and other action.

February 2002

For further information:

Contact: Terry Walls, Media Information Officer, CHOGM 2002 Task Force
Mobile: 0419 606 107
E-mail terry.walls@pmc.gov.au

Prepared by: CHOGM 2002 Task Force
Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet