ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the European Union have agreed to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation at international forums, including the United Nations, to develop a coordinated response to the growing threat of terrorism.
The commitment was made during the 10th round of the Pakistan-EU Bilateral Counterterrorism Dialogue held in Islamabad on Thursday.
Pakistan’s delegation was led by Dr Fareha Bugti, Director General for Counterterrorism, while the EU delegation was headed by Anna Strazska, the European External Action Service’s special envoy for counterterrorism.
Both sides reviewed regional and global developments affecting the security situation. They strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and reaffirmed their commitment to working together against the threat.
The European Union also condemned recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan, expressed solidarity with affected civilians and acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism.
The two sides discussed security concerns arising from the situation in Afghanistan and recognised the importance of international cooperation in addressing cross-border threats. They stressed that effective multilateral engagement was essential to building a lasting global consensus against terrorism.
The dialogue also focused on emerging methods used by terrorist groups, including the exploitation of cyberspace, information systems and energy resources to support their activities.
Pakistan and the EU exchanged experiences and best practices on preventing violent extremism, tackling terrorist financing and countering radicalisation. Particular attention was given to the misuse of digital platforms by extremist groups.
The discussions identified priority areas for future cooperation. Both sides also agreed to maintain regular and structured engagement on counterterrorism. The next round of talks is expected to take place in Brussels next year on a mutually agreed date.
The dialogue comes amid growing concerns over evolving militant networks, particularly their recruitment methods and sources of financing.
At a seminar in Islamabad on Tuesday, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called on Afghan authorities to take concrete and verifiable action against the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan and other militant groups operating from Afghan territory.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, speaking at the same event, cited United Nations assessments indicating that more than 6,000 TTP fighters were present in Afghanistan, while the overall militant presence exceeded 20,000.
