ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United Kingdom agreed on Wednesday to deepen counterterrorism cooperation, with new attention to disinformation, social media misuse and emerging technologies.
Officials reviewed security challenges and existing partnerships during their annual bilateral counterterrorism dialogue in Islamabad.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the delegations discussed threats from transnational militant networks and ways to exchange effective counterterrorism practices. Thomas Barry, the UK’s Director for National and Economic Security, led the British delegation.
British officials expressed condolences over deaths in militant attacks in Pakistan and reaffirmed support for the country’s counterterrorism efforts.
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Both sides voiced concern about groups they said operated in and from Afghanistan, including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
They stressed that a stable Afghanistan was essential for lasting regional security. Islamabad has accused Kabul of allowing militant groups to use Afghan territory for attacks in Pakistan.
Afghan authorities deny the accusation. The discussions also covered misinformation campaigns and militant groups’ exploitation of digital platforms.
Pakistan and Britain have previously cooperated through intelligence-sharing and professional military training. Their previous counterterrorism dialogue took place in London in February 2025.
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Participants reviewed regional threats and explored opportunities for closer security cooperation. Both governments agreed to strengthen institutional links and maintain regular engagement.
The next Pakistan-UK Counterterrorism Dialogue will take place in London in 2027, on dates yet to be finalised.
With additional input from Arab News
