site.btaPlevneliev to UN: We Can Not Accept Terrorism, Extremism as the "New Normal"

Plevneliev to UN: We Can Not Accept Terrorism, Extremism as the "New Normal"

New York, September 23 (BTA) - "We can not and should not accept that terrorism and extremism is the "new normal"," Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev said during the General Debate of the 71st UN General Assembly Session here Thursday.

"Peace and freedom are tested today. We are witnessing the worst security situation since the end of World War II. National borders and international principles are challenged. In many regions war and terror prevail. States and institutions disintegrate. The world is out of balance today," Plevneliev said.

He addressed the international community, calling for collective global efforts for managing migration and reinforcing international cooperation and coordination for providing better protection and help to refugees.

Bulgaria welcomes the New York declaration as a symbol of the joint efforts to strengthen international cooperation to better protect and assist refugees. "Migration should be managed through collective global efforts in a responsible way. Our specific focus should be on the protection of the human rights of migrants and refugees, especially the most vulnerable - women, children and persons with disabilities. At the same time, all migrants have the duty to comply with the laws of the countries of residence. Bulgaria welcomes the emphasis on the sharing of global responsibility," he said.

Plevneliev underscored that the current global humanitarian crisis serves to remind that "we must tackle global issues in an inclusive and integrated manner, focusing on the root causes".

He recalled Bulgaria's commitment to the global efforts for preventing and resolving ongoing conflicts.

The Bulgarian head of State said that terrorism and violent extremism are an alarming threat to peace and security. It is a source of a great concern that such acts have increased dramatically. According to him, prevention of radicalization is an essential part of the response. Education, protection of cultural heritage and upholding human rights will helping deal with the causes forcing individuals to join violent extremist groups.

In his speech, Plevneliev stressed the implementation of the sustainable development goals in the next 15 years.

"We made history with the adoption of the 2030 sustainable development agenda and the Paris Climate Change Agreement. Now it's time for their implementation. It is up to all of us to adapt our national strategies and deliver on those commitments," he said.

Plevneliev declared himself in favour of increasing transparency, coherence and efficiency in the UN's system, which should be better prepared to deal with new challenges and respond to the growing needs.

In his speech, Plevneliev recalled the international community's growing support in recent years for ensuring equal opportunities for men and women in gaining access to senior decision-making positions, including the post of UN secretary-general.

"After eight male secretaries general, the time has come for a capable and respectable woman from Eastern Europe to lead the United Nations. Bulgaria has a very strong candidate, a true leader with extensive experience in international relations, and excellent management skills. A candidate, who deserves your trust and support.

President Plevneliev hosted a reception at the Bulgarian mission in the UN on the occasion of September 22 - Bulgaria's Independence Day, and in honour of UNESCO Director-General and Bulgaria's official candidate for the position of UN secretary-general, Irina Bokova.