The efforts should be focused on preventing the use of the internet for radicalization, recruitment, and propaganda of extremism and violence, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon said on September 20 while delivering a statement at the General Debate of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

“Tajikistan welcomes the adoption in June 2023 the eighth review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy,” said Rahmon.  “We believe it provides a robust framework in further guiding our counterterrorism efforts.”

“The fabric of our societies is woven with the threads of different cultures, traditions and faiths.  This solidarity is a good basis for peaceful life in a space of mutual understanding between different cultures and religions.”

In this regard, manifestations of discrimination, racial and religious hostility, with an understanding of their negative consequences, are unacceptable, Tajik leader said, noting that these actions, as well as the politicization of religious issues undermine the very essence of our international community.

“Insulting religious sentiments, hatred and violence against any religion or belief have tragic consequences.  In most cases, such provocative actions trigger intolerance and mistrust, causing divisions and conflicts among civilizations,” said Rahmon “In this sense, Tajikistan strongly condemns any insult to the religious sanctity of the people, including the Holy Qur’an or other cultural and religious values of humanity.”

He noted that as a co-sponsor of the recently adopted United Nations General Assembly Resolution entitled “Promoting interreligious and intercultural dialogue and tolerance in countering hate speech,” Tajikistan reiterates the importance of promoting dialogue and mutual understanding among civilizations for peace and harmony in the world.

“We believe spreading the values of tolerance and peace is the best way to confront hate speech, fanaticism, extremism, violence, and incitement.”