"Reaffirming our commitment to the APEC Leaders' Statement on Combating Terrorism, adopted in Shanghai on October 21, 2001, in the light of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001,

Recognizing the need to combat by all means and as a matter of urgency threats to global peace, security and economic stability in the region caused by terrorist acts,

APEC Leaders:

1. Condemn in the strongest terms the recent terrorist attacks in the APEC region, particularly in Bali, Indonesia, on 12 October 2002, the bombings in the Philippines that killed and injured a large number of innocent people of various nationalities, and the seizure of a large group of hostages in Moscow on 23 October;

2. Express their deep condolences to the victims, their families, the peoples and Governments of Indonesia, Australia, the Philippines and the Russian Federation, as well as other countries;

3. Highly appreciate the determination of the Governments of Indonesia, the Philippines and the Russian Federation, as well as their prompt and targeted actions to find and bring to justice the perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of these terrorist acts;

4. Welcome the adoption by the Government of Indonesia of the Decree on Combating Terrorism, and call on all APEC member economies to take measures to support efforts to investigate and punish to the fullest extent of the law the individuals and groups involved in this appalling crime against humanity, while fully respecting human rights;

5. Reiterate that terrorist acts in all forms and manifestations committed anywhere, at any time, and by anyone are brutal and heinous acts of violence that are contrary to the current legislation, religious beliefs, and fundamental values of APEC members, and constitute a direct challenge to the concept of terrorism and terrorism in the region. The Forum as a community of free, open and prosperous economies;

6. Welcome the adoption of UN Security Council Resolutions 1438, 1440 and 1737, and appreciate the continued cooperation and mutual support of Forum members to address the consequences of terrorist acts and prevent new terrorist attacks in the APEC region;

7. Continue to be at the forefront of the fight against threats that contribute to terrorism, such as human smuggling and illicit trafficking, money laundering, illicit drug and arms trafficking, which will contribute to ensuring stability, security, sustainable economic growth, and the well-being and prosperity of the economies of the Asia-Pacific region;

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8. Support joint efforts of APEC economies to mitigate the severe consequences of terrorist attacks in the affected economies;

9. Call for strengthening international cooperation to support efforts in the region aimed at eradicating terrorism and restoring confidence in the region's economy.

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