Diplomatic representatives from the Small Group of the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh/ISIS convened in Rome today, hosted by the Italian Republic.
The meeting, presided over by Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Edmondo Cirielli, saw discussions led by Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Political Director Pasquale Ferrara and co-host United States Deputy Special Envoy for the Coalition Ian McCary.
The coalition, committed to countering ISIS in various regions, emphasized the adaptation of counterterrorism strategies to address the evolving threat landscape.
During the meeting, it was agreed to update the Guiding Principles, acknowledging the increasing regionalization of efforts and emphasizing the pivotal role of civilian-led initiatives in countering ISIS and its global affiliates.
The 2023 Coalition Stabilization Pledge Drive for liberated areas of Syria and Iraq was applauded, with members expressing satisfaction and highlighting the importance of implementing these pledges. The Government of Iraq was lauded for its development into a full counterterrorism partner.
To ensure the lasting defeat of ISIS in the region, the coalition members committed to prioritizing efforts to address humanitarian and security needs in displaced persons camps and detention facilities in northeast Syria.
In a collective effort to defeat ISIS affiliates in Africa, coalition members agreed to harmonize efforts with other regional initiatives.
They endorsed the implementation strategy for the Coalition’s Africa Focus Group action plan, aiming to enhance African member states’ civilian-led counter-ISIS capabilities. Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Kenya, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, and Togo participated in the session devoted to counterterrorism in Africa.
The coalition intensified its focus on the threat posed by ISIS in the Central Asian region. Emphasizing the need for increased engagement with non-member Central Asian states, members welcomed Uzbekistan as an observer in Rome.
The Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS affirmed its unity and determination to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS wherever it attempts to operate.
The commitment includes holding ISIS terrorists accountable under criminal justice systems, demonstrating the coalition’s unwavering resolve in the face of the persistent threat.
