Pakistan, UK reaffirm counterterrorism cooperation in Islamabad talks
The annual dialogue also addressed militants operating from Afghanistan and online disinformation, and the next round will be held in London next year.
Pakistan and the United Kingdom reaffirmed their shared commitment to fighting terrorism in all its forms on Wednesday, the state broadcaster Radio Pakistan reported.
The commitment was expressed during the annual Pakistan-UK Counterterrorism Dialogue held in Islamabad.
The Pakistan delegation was led by Director General Counter Terrorism Dr. Fareha Bugti, while the UK side was headed by Thomas Barry, Director for National and Economic Security at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
Both sides held a detailed discussion on the changing global and regional security environment and exchanged views on threats posed by terrorist entities, including transnational networks.
They expressed concern over the continuing threat from terrorist groups, including the TTP, operating in and from Afghanistan, and stressed the need for a stable and secure Afghanistan as a basis for lasting peace in the region.
The UK side expressed condolences for the loss of innocent lives in terrorist attacks in Pakistan and said the UK stands with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism.
Both sides also reviewed ongoing bilateral and multilateral counterterrorism cooperation.
The dialogue focused on sharing best practices and exploring new partnerships to counter emerging trends, including misinformation and disinformation campaigns, the exploitation of social media platforms and new technologies.
During the discussion, both sides acknowledged Pakistan's contribution to regional stability and security.
Pakistan and the UK agreed to strengthen institutional linkages and maintain regular engagement to advance their shared counterterrorism goals.
The next round of the Pakistan-UK Counter Terrorism Dialogue will be held in London next year on mutually agreed dates, the broadcaster said.
Pakistan has faced repeated militant attacks in recent years, and the TTP has been among the groups Islamabad has repeatedly linked to cross-border security concerns with Afghanistan.
