Pakistan and Russia on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation against terrorism as senior officials from both countries met in Islamabad for the 12th round of the Pakistan-Russia Joint Working Group on Countering International Terrorism.
High-Level Delegations Review Regional Security
The meeting brought together high-level representatives from the two countries to review regional security developments, assess evolving terrorist threats and explore ways to enhance cooperation in combating terrorism at bilateral, regional and international levels.
The Russian delegation was led by Dmitry Lyubinsky, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, while the Pakistani side was headed by Khalid Jamali, Additional Foreign Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Foreign Office said.
Focus on Afghanistan-Based Terrorism
The discussions focused extensively on regional terrorist threats, with particular attention given to terrorism emanating from Afghanistan and its implications for neighbouring countries and wider regional stability.
During the talks, Pakistan underscored the importance of immediate, credible and verifiable action by the relevant authorities in Afghanistan against terrorist groups operating from Afghan territory. Pakistani officials stressed that Afghan soil must not be allowed to be used for the planning, financing or execution of terrorist attacks against any country.
Emerging Challenges: Technology and Financing
Both sides exchanged views on the changing nature of terrorism and examined emerging challenges posed by extremist organizations. The discussions highlighted growing concerns over the use of modern technologies, digital platforms and innovative methods for terrorist financing, recruitment and propaganda.
Recognising the increasingly complex security environment, Pakistan and Russia emphasised the need for coordinated and collective responses to evolving terrorist threats. The two countries agreed that closer cooperation, intelligence-sharing and multilateral engagement would be essential to effectively address regional and global security challenges.
Progress in Bilateral Counterterrorism Cooperation
The meeting also reviewed the progress made in bilateral counterterrorism cooperation and expressed satisfaction over the positive trajectory of collaboration between Islamabad and Moscow in this important field. Both sides acknowledged that enhanced cooperation has contributed to greater understanding of common security concerns and strengthened efforts to counter transnational terrorism.
Multilateral Coordination and Future Rounds
Pakistan and Russia further discussed opportunities to deepen coordination within regional and international organizations, particularly the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, where both countries have been advocating stronger collective action against terrorism and extremism.
The two delegations reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting regional peace, stability and security through sustained dialogue and practical cooperation. They also agreed to continue consultations on counterterrorism issues and maintain close coordination on matters of mutual concern.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides agreed that the next round of the Pakistan-Russia Joint Working Group on Countering International Terrorism would be held in Moscow next year, reflecting the ongoing momentum in bilateral engagement on security and counterterrorism matters. The talks marked another step forward in the growing Pakistan-Russia partnership, highlighting the importance both countries attach to addressing common security challenges and strengthening regional cooperation against terrorism.
