Bhutan calls for curbing terror,implementing SAFTA

New Delhi, Apr 3 (UNI) Bhutan today called for strengthening efforts towards eradicating terrorism, implementing SAFTA and putting in place effective mechanisms to check trafficking of drugs and women and children.

Bhutan Prime Minister Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk in his statement at the inaugural session of the 14th SAARC Summit here said terrorism, drug trafficking and HIV(AIDS) must be addressed through a ''well-coordinated regional approach.'' Describing terrorism as a serious threat to all SAARC countries which was diverting their efforts and scarce resources away from pressing socio-economic issues, he stressed the need for strengthening efforts to combat and eradicate these evils.

''...It is a cause for deep concern that, within and across our borders, trafficking in women and children is widespread. We must, therefore, redouble our efforts and put in place effective mechanisms so that th evulnerable segments of our societies receive the attention andprotection they deserve,'' he said.

The Bhutan Prime Minister also stressed the importance and urgency of implementing SAFTA saying economic and free trade lie at theheart of successful regionalism. ''We must implement SAFTA and its Trade Liberalisation Programme in earnest.'' Stressing the importance of cooperation in energy sector, Mr Wangchuk urged the member countries to harness collective potential to achieve energy security.

He also highlighted the need to rationalise and prioritise areas of cooperation and avoid proliferation of activities and programmes.

UNI