ISLAMABAD:The annual bilateral Pakistan-UK Counterterrorism Dialogue was held on Wednesday in Islamabad. The Pakistan delegation was led by Dr. Fareha Bugti, Director General (CT), while the UK side was headed by Thomas Barry, Director for National and Economic Security in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The UK side expressed condolences over the loss of innocent lives in terrorist attacks in Pakistan. The UK reiterated that it stands with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism. The two sides held detailed and constructive discussion on the evolving global and regional security environment and exchanged views on the threats posed by terrorist entities, including transnational terrorist networks. Both sides expressed concerns over the continuing threat posed by terrorist groups, including the TTP, operating in and from Afghanistan, underscoring the urgent need for a stable, secure Afghanistan as a cornerstone for lasting peace and prosperity across the region.

Both sides also reviewed ongoing bilateral and multilateral cooperation in counter-terrorism and reaffirmed their shared commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The dialogue also focused on exchange of best practices and exploring new avenues for partnership to counter new trends in terrorism including misinformation/disinformation campaigns, exploitation of social media platforms and emerging technologies.

During the discussion both sides acknowledged Pakistan's contributions to regional stability and security. Pakistan and the UK agreed to strengthen institutional linkages and maintain regular engagement to advance shared counter-terrorism objectives.

It was agreed that the next round of the Pakistan-UK Counter Terrorism Dialogue will be held in London, UK in 2027 on mutually agreed dates.