Pakistan and UK discuss counterterrorism cooperation, express concern over TTP threat
By The South Asia Times
ISLAMABAD - Pakistan and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to counterterrorism cooperation, expressing concern over threats posed by militant groups, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), operating in and from Afghanistan.
The two countries held their annual counterterrorism dialogue in Islamabad on Wednesday, discussing regional security, transnational militant networks and emerging threats linked to social media and new technologies, according to Pakistan Foreign Ministry.
Pakistan's delegation was led by Dr. Fareha Bugti, director general for counterterrorism, while the British delegation was headed by Thomas Barry, director for national and economic security at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
The British delegation offered condolences over the loss of civilian lives in terrorist attacks in Pakistan and reiterated the UK's support for Islamabad in its fight against terrorism, according to a statement issued after the talks.
Both sides expressed concern over the continuing threat posed by terrorist groups, including the TTP, operating in and from Afghanistan. They stressed the need for a stable and secure Afghanistan as a foundation for lasting peace and prosperity across the region.
The discussions also covered ongoing bilateral and multilateral counterterrorism cooperation, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms.
Officials explored ways to strengthen cooperation against emerging threats, including misinformation and disinformation campaigns, the exploitation of social media platforms and the use of new technologies by militant groups.
The two sides also acknowledged Pakistan's contributions to regional stability and security and agreed to strengthen institutional ties and maintain regular engagement to advance their shared counterterrorism objectives.
The next round of the Pakistan-UK Counterterrorism Dialogue is scheduled to take place in London in 2027 on mutually agreed dates.
