国内英语新闻:No double standards should be applied in countering terrorism: Chinese diplomat

GENEVA, March 5 (Xinhua) -- A senior Chinese diplomat said here Thursday that there is no "good" terrorism or "bad" terrorism, there is only terrorism in the world, and no double standards should be applied in countering terrorism.

Speaking during the interactive dialogue with the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights while countering terrorism at the 43rd session of the Human Rights Council, Liu Hua, Special Representative for Human Rights of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, pointed out that terrorism is the common enemy of the mankind.

At present, Liu said, the international counter-terrorism situation is complex and severe. The international community is facing a new wave of terrorist activities, which pose serious threats to international and regional security and stability.

"The international community should carry out international cooperation and jointly combat terrorism in accordance with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and other generally accepted basic principles of international relations," she said.

The Chinese diplomat stressed that the key to countering terrorism is to provide the right solution to both the symptoms and root causes.

"On the one hand, we must base ourselves on the current situation, adopt a zero-tolerance attitude towards terrorism, and uproot all evils. On the other hand, we must take a long-term perspective, promote equal dialogue between different civilizations, religions, and nationalities, promote economic and social development, properly handle regional conflicts, and strive to eradicate the breeding ground for terrorism and extremism," Liu noted.

At the same time, all parties should actively explore the balance between counter-terrorism and protection of human rights, and effectively prevent violations of the legitimate rights and interests of citizens and organizations, she added.

China is willing to strengthen counter-terrorism exchanges and cooperation with relevant parties in accordance with the principles of mutual respect and equal cooperation to jointly combat terrorist forces and maintain international peace and security, she said.