Pakistan and the European Union have agreed to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation at international forums, including the United Nations. The agreement aims to promote a coordinated global response to terrorism. Both sides reached the understanding during their 10th Bilateral Counterterrorism Dialogue in Islamabad on Thursday.
The Foreign Office said the meeting brought together senior officials from Pakistan and the EU. Dr Fareha Bugti, director general for counterterrorism, led Pakistan’s delegation. Anna Strazska, the European External Action Service’s special envoy for counterterrorism, headed the EU delegation. Officials discussed regional and global developments affecting security.
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Both sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the threat. The EU also condemned recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan and expressed solidarity with affected civilians. According to the Foreign Office, the European side recognised Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism.
The discussions also covered security concerns linked to the situation in Afghanistan. Pakistan and the EU acknowledged each other’s contributions to the international fight against terrorism. They stressed that multilateral cooperation remains essential for building a lasting international consensus on counterterrorism.
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Pakistan-EU Hold Counterterrorism Dialogue
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Officials also examined changing terrorist tactics, including the misuse of cyberspace and information and energy resources. The two sides shared practices for preventing violent extremism, terrorist financing and radicalisation. They particularly discussed how terrorist groups exploit online platforms to support their activities.
The Foreign Office said both sides identified priority areas for future cooperation. They also agreed to maintain regular, structured engagement on counterterrorism matters. The next round of bilateral talks will take place in Brussels next year, with both sides expected to agree on a suitable date.
The dialogue comes as Pakistan faces evolving security challenges involving militant recruitment and financing. At a seminar in Islamabad on Tuesday, officials discussed changing methods used by terrorist groups. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar urged Afghan authorities to take verifiable action against the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan and other groups operating from Afghan territory. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar cited UN assessments estimating more than 6,000 TTP fighters in Afghanistan and over 20,000 militants overall.