REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, RIYADH -- United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, called on Sunday for fighting incitements linking terrorism with Islam, reported the Al Arabiya local news agency. He highlighted the importance of the UN-Saudi counterterrorism cooperation, stressing determination in assisting countries fighting terrorism.

Guterres added that the lack of political solutions during several crises contributes to increased terrorism. "We cannot defeat terrorism in Syria without a comprehensive political solution," he said.

In addition, Guterres thanked Saudi Arabia for assisting Syrians in the establishment of their opposition delegation in the Geneva conference. He thinks reconciliation in Iraq is possible via the cooperation of all relevant parties as well as mutual coexistence and respect. 

At the same time, Minister of Foreign Affairs Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir highlighted that he and Guterres discussed Syria, Libya and counterterrorism. Al-Jubeir further confirmed the current positive relations between Saudi Arabia and the United States, stating that both countries agree on many issues. The minister expects the new U.S. President Trump will reconsider the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act.

The legislation endorsed in 2016 grants terrorism victims in America the right to sue organizations and countries for their involvement and support of terrorism. During Guterres' first visit to Saudi Arabia, the UN General Secretary met with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, at which time the King congratulated Guterres on assuming his new role and wished him all success. 

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