Xinhua, November 16, 2010

Afghanistan No.1 victim of international terrorism: UN official

"As the front-line state in combating terrorism, Afghanistan has suffered immensely in terms of loss of human life, and the destruction of our economy and infrastructure,"

UNITED NATIONS - Afghanistan remains the country most affected by international terrorism, a UN official said here on Monday.

Afghans wounded in a blast lie in a hospital in Kandahar city, south of Kabul, Afghanistan, Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2010. Two explosions rocked Kandahar on Tuesday where U.S. and Afghan forces are ramping up operations in areas long held by the Taliban. At least eight people were killed and another 22 were wounded in the blasts, according to the province's officials. (Photo: AP)

Despite progress on the political, social and economic fronts, the terrorist activities of the Taliban, Al-Qaida and other extremist groups continue to be the main challenge to Afghanistan' s security, reconstruction and development, Afghanistan's UN Ambassador Zahir Tanin told a Security Council meeting.

"As the front-line state in combating terrorism, Afghanistan has suffered immensely in terms of loss of human life, and the destruction of our economy and infrastructure," Tanin said.

In his speech, Tanin said that "it is widely recognized that military efforts alone are not the solution to Afghanistan's security problem. Reconciliation and reintegration of former combatants with no links to terrorist organizations is critical for achieving lasting peace and security."

In this regard, Tanin stressed that the Afghan reintegration and reconciliation initiative will be pursued in conformity with the provisions of the Afghan constitution.

"The fight against terrorism is a key component of our partnership with the international community," Tanin said, noting that he looked forward to strengthening this partnership in the coming years.

"The people of Afghanistan are as resolute as ever before to eliminate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations," he added.

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