Pakistan, EU agree to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation at multilateral forums

Pakistan and the European Union have pledged to enhance their counterterrorism collaboration through multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, according to a declaration by the Foreign Office on Thursday. This collaboration was solidified during the 10th session of the Pakistan-EU Bilateral Counterterrorism Dialogue, which took place in Islamabad.

Dr. Fareha Bugti, the director general for counterterrorism, represented Pakistan while Anna Strazska, the special envoy for counterterrorism from the European External Action Service, represented the EU. Both parties exchanged perspectives on recent regional and global events influencing the terrorism threat and unequivocally denounced terrorism in all its forms, reaffirming their dedication to combating this menace.

The EU specifically condemned recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan, expressed solidarity with the affected civilians, and acknowledged the significance of Pakistan's anti-terrorism efforts. Both nations agreed on the importance of effective multilateralism in establishing enduring international consensus on terrorism. They also discussed the evolving nature of terrorist threats, including the misuse of cyberspace and resources, and exchanged methods to prevent and counter violent extremism, financing of terrorism, and radicalisation, particularly through cyberspace.

The two sides identified priority areas for cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to regular, formalised counterterrorism dialogues. The next dialogue is set to be held in Brussels at a mutually suitable time next year. As Pakistan's counterterrorism challenge enters a more complex stage, with groups adapting their financing and recruitment methods, the dialogue addresses these evolving threats.

An international seminar organized by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad highlighted the changing tactics of terrorist groups, including their financing and recruitment methods. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called upon Afghan authorities to take decisive action against banned groups operating from Afghan soil, while Information Minister Attaullah Tarar cited UN assessments indicating over 6,000 TTP fighters present in Afghanistan, with a total militant presence surpassing 20,000.