Pakistan and the United Kingdom have expressed concern over the continuing threat posed by terrorist groups operating in and from Afghanistan, reaffirming their commitment to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation during their annual bilateral dialogue in Islamabad.
According to the Foreign Office (FO), the two countries reviewed ongoing bilateral and multilateral counterterrorism cooperation and reaffirmed their shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms.
The delegations discussed the evolving regional and global security environment and exchanged views on threats posed by terrorist organisations, including transnational networks.
Both sides expressed concern over the activities of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other terrorist groups operating in and from Afghanistan.
Pakistan, UK Call for Stable and Secure Afghanistan
The Foreign Office said the two countries underscored the urgent need for a stable and secure Afghanistan as a cornerstone of lasting peace and prosperity across the region.
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The UK delegation also conveyed condolences over the loss of innocent lives in terrorist attacks in Pakistan and reiterated its support for the country’s efforts to combat terrorism.
The discussions highlighted the importance of continued international cooperation to address security challenges and prevent terrorist networks from exploiting regional instability.
Dialogue Focuses on Emerging Terrorism Threats
The annual dialogue also examined new trends in terrorism and opportunities for cooperation in addressing emerging security challenges.
According to the Foreign Office, both sides exchanged best practices and explored new avenues for partnership to counter misinformation and disinformation campaigns, the exploitation of social media platforms and the misuse of emerging technologies.
The delegations acknowledged Pakistan’s contributions to regional stability and security and agreed to strengthen institutional linkages and maintain regular engagement to advance shared counterterrorism objectives.
The two countries also agreed to hold the next round of their annual counterterrorism dialogue in London in 2027, on mutually agreed dates.
Pakistan and UK Expand Security Cooperation
Earlier this year, Pakistan and the United Kingdom agreed to enhance cooperation in counterterrorism, combating illegal migration and human smuggling, institutional collaboration and police training.
Pakistan and the European Union have also agreed to strengthen cooperation at multilateral forums, including the United Nations.
Afghanistan Remains a Key Security Concern
Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have remained strained in recent years as Islamabad continues to raise concerns about cross-border terrorism.
Pakistan has repeatedly urged the Taliban administration in Kabul to take verifiable and irreversible action against terrorist sanctuaries on Afghan territory, particularly those linked to the banned TTP.
Pakistani officials maintain that these sanctuaries are used to facilitate attacks inside Pakistan and have called for their dismantling.
The latest Pakistan-UK dialogue underscores Islamabad’s efforts to strengthen international cooperation against terrorism and address security threats originating from across its western border.
