The Challenge of Terrorism and War on Terror: Chinese Response

What needs to be done?

While terrorism should not be acceptable in any form, there is a need to define various forms of it. It has to be realized that military actions and war cannot eliminate terrorism; rather, it needs proper strategies and measures. In this connection, addressing the political dimensions of the issues, which trigger violence, a somewhat smaller number of perpetrators can be isolated from the much larger population of prospective followers. Moreover, using police and surveillance networks to preempt the acts of violence, treating these acts of violence as crime, and a judicial process to deal with the criminals will help eradicating support for terrorism on sustainable basis.

At a higher level, it needs to be realized that the current formulation, maintenance and operation of the International System is inherently West (Europe and the US) centered. These countries which are at a higher level of development and enjoy superiority in different aspects of power as compared to the rest of the world influence the decision making in such a way as often leads to favor the powerful against the weak. Whereas the global institutions should be able to proceed and prove that they are moving towards worldwide justice, as opposed to “might is right”. There is no option but to find out the real causes of deprivation, frustration and disappointment alongside making efforts to build an effective global system which is fair and capable of providing justice to the weaker elements against the powerful players in the world.

In this regard it is good to note that the document released yesterday (September, 6, 2011) about “China’s Peaceful Development’ emphasizes recognition and respect for principles of equality, independence, sovereignty, and security of all nations; genuine pluralism and right to uphold and safeguard one’s own civilization, culture, and values; persuasion and the strength of logic and reasoning and use of pacific means for resolution of conflicts; subordinating the use of force to law and international system of justice; collective self-reliance, and international cooperation and collaboration.

Moving for such a just global order is no doubt a long journey; nevertheless, it is inevitable to make this journey speedier, not only for the peace and stability of Asia – which is the subject of this Conference – but for the progress and prosperity of the whole world through mutual cooperation, movement for sustainable peace, and respect for harmonious world and human values.

It is but natural to expect from China which – though yet to match the comprehensive power of the traditional powers – is an emerging power, having greater stakes in the global system, and also the only Asian country among the permanent members of Security Council that it will lead the journey not only at the conceptual but at operational level as well; with its continued emphasis on harmonious development, common progress and respect for human values and its approach of using peaceful means to resolve the conflicts; as noted in white paper on ‘China’s Peaceful Development’ “ … war and confrontation will only lead to a vicious cycle of violence begetting violence, while dialogue and negotiation are the only effective and reliable way to settle disputes. Countries should seek peace, safeguard security, settle disputes and promote harmony through cooperation…