Tuesday, September 13 2005 10:41 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Washington: Asserting that all forms of terrorism should be condemned, United States yesterday (Sept 12, 2005) urged the UN General Assembly to adopt a 'comprehensive' treaty against international terrorism.

"The United States strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and urges the General Assembly to adopt a Comprehensive Convention against International Terrorism," the State Department said in a statement.

It firmly rejected the argument of apologists for some forms of terrorism in the name of 'freedom struggle' or other arguments. A clear, strong Convention on terrorism, it said, will bolster common efforts to preserve peace and security.

"It is time for all UN Member States to unequivocally outlaw acts of international terrorism. For too many years, the General Assembly has been unable to finalize this important treaty. It is time to reach agreement," it said.

The State Department also said the US encourages all nations to become party to the 12 counter-terrorism conventions and protocols in force that were negotiated under the auspices of the UN and its affiliated agencies.