Brussels: Maqsoud Kruse, Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Countering Extremism and Terrorism, participated in high-level engagements at the European Parliament in Brussels. The discussions, attended by Members of the European Parliament, their political advisers, and representatives of parliamentary committees, focused on countering extremism and terrorism and their implications for societal security and stability.

According to Emirates News Agency, Kruse outlined the UAE's vision for countering extremism and terrorism. He explained that extremism is fundamentally an ideology, while terrorism stems from that ideology, making intellectual, cultural, and social interventions essential components of any effective strategy to counter extremism.

Kruse emphasized that the UAE's approach is based on addressing the root causes of extremism, countering hate speech and incitement, promoting the values of citizenship, tolerance, and coexistence, and safeguarding pluralism. The session saw broad engagement from the participating members of the European Parliament, with several speakers emphasizing the importance of strengthening international cooperation in combating extremism and terrorism, and exchanging expertise and best practices in preventing extremism and protecting societies.

The discussions also addressed the challenges associated with the spread of hate speech and extremism through digital platforms and highlighted the role of educational and community institutions in promoting the values of coexistence and integration. Participants commended the experiences and initiatives aimed at fostering tolerance and strengthening social cohesion.