Pranab talks tough on terrorism at NAM meet.

Tehran, July 29 : Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee today made a strong pitch against terrorism while addressing the 118 member 15th ministerial meet of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) here.

Appropriately referring to the theme of the meet -- "Solidarity for Peace, Justice and Friendship" -- Mukherjee strongly asserted that the recent bombings in Kabul, Bangalore and Ahmedabad were aimed at spreading instability across India.

"The terrorists' intention quite clearly is to rupture India's resilient social fabric, but India's resolve and capacities are strong and can withstand all that these terrorists can do."

Mukherjee also urged NAM countries to collectively fight against terrorism, saying: "We shall be remiss in our commitment to the theme of this conference if we do not send a strong message that our movement stands resolutely for International cooperation in bringing the perpetrators, organizers, financers and sponsors of all acts of terrorism to justice."

Mukherjee reiterated the need for a concerted effort by the NAM towards early finalization and adoption of a comprehensive convention onnternational terrorism , a draft for which was presented by India and the United Nations in 1996.

He also talked about revitalizing the NAM in international decision-making, promotion of South-South cooperation and also supported the view that all countries have a right to pursue nuclear programmes for peaceful purposes.

The 15th NAM ministerial meet began earlier today with a fiery speech from Iranian President M. Ahmedinejad in which he criticised international organizations, especially the United Nations, the U.N. Security Council and the International Monetary Front (IMF) for theirartisanship towards the big powers, notably the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council.

Afghan Foreign Minister Dadafur Spanta and Pakistan' s Labour and Oversees Minister Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah also attended the ministerial meeting. By Naveen Kapoor

ANI