Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) officially launched its comprehensive program to combat terrorism in the Sahel region during a ceremony in Mauritania’s capital, Nouakchott, on Monday.
The event was attended by Mauritanian Minister of Defense Hanena Ould Sidi, IMCTC Secretary-General Major General Pilot Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi, and a host of high-ranking officials, including ministers from Mauritania’s interior, justice, Islamic affairs, culture, and communication departments. Ambassadors from IMCTC member states and supporting nations were also present.
In his address, Mauritania’s defense minister described terrorism as a critical threat to humanity, especially in the Sahel region, which has been severely impacted by extremist activities. He emphasized the importance of collective and sustained efforts to ensure the success of the IMCTC program, which aims to bolster regional stability.
Major General Al-Moghedi highlighted the program as a cornerstone in combating terrorism. He outlined the IMCTC’s comprehensive vision, which focuses on four key pillars: ideological reform, countering terrorism financing, media engagement, and military cooperation.
“The Sahel countries are pivotal in the global fight against terrorism, and this program underscores the IMCTC’s commitment to fostering partnerships and building sustainable local capabilities to confront terrorist challenges,” Al-Moghedi stated.
The launch marks the beginning of a five-year initiative supported by Saudi Arabia, which aims to strengthen the operational capacities of agencies combating terrorism. The program consists of 239 activities, including training, awareness campaigns, and capacity-building exercises to counter terrorist ideologies and address the root causes of extremism.
An introductory film screened at the event detailed the IMCTC’s objectives and its foundation, which was spearheaded by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in December 2015. With 42 member countries as of 2024, the coalition seeks to achieve global leadership in the fight against terrorism through collective, organized action.
Saudi Arabia, a key supporter of the IMCTC, has pledged SAR 100 million to fund its initiatives. During the coalition’s second Defense Ministers Council meeting in Riyadh in February 2024, Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman announced the Kingdom’s commitment to providing 46 training programs in areas covered by the coalition’s mandate.
The IMCTC program’s inaugural year will focus on Mauritania, setting the stage for expanding efforts across the Sahel region. It aims to empower local communities to effectively address terrorist threats and ensure long-term regional peace and security.
