The European Union's Regional Committee convened on Wednesday and examined the issue of combatting terrorism, while Athens Mayor Dora Bakoyiannis also attended.

The Regional Committee is being called on to present its opinion on the European Commission's announcement on the issue of terrorism and to propose further action.
Bakoyiannis said local administration institutions can play a crucial role both in preventing and cracking down on terrorism.

"Terrorism, as it was proved in London, is not only imported but it is also a byproduct of our own societies. It is necessary for us to mobilize society as the main factor of prevention," she said.

The Athens mayor further said that what is necessary is coordination among legal systems, cooperation among police forces and the exchange of information, but at the same time the dignity, freedom and private lives of citizens must be safeguarded.

"The path to combatting terrorism is long and it is doubtful if we shall ever succeed in eradicating it completely," Bakoyiannis said and pointed out that the path to combatting terrorism cannot be effective without the active participation at all levels of the EU's local and regional authorities.

Source: Athens News Agency

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