Pakistan and Russia pledge enhanced cooperation against regional terror threats

Senior officials from Pakistan and Russia met on Tuesday in Moscow and agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in response to evolving terrorism threats in Afghanistan and the broader region, according to a statement from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Both countries have faced growing challenges from militant groups. Pakistan has expressed concern over a surge in cross-border attacks allegedly carried out by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) from Afghan territory—an accusation that Kabul denies.

Meanwhile, Russia continues to confront threats from Daesh (ISIS), particularly following the devastating March 22, 2024, attack at Moscow's Crocus City Hall, which killed over 140 people and injured many others. Daesh claimed responsibility for the assault, marking one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent Russian history.

The two nations convened for the 11th meeting of the Pakistan-Russia Joint Working Group on Countering International Terrorism, held in Moscow. Pakistan’s delegation was led by Special Secretary (United Nations) Nabeel Munir, while Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin headed the Russian side. The high-level discussions will continue through Wednesday.

“The two sides held an in-depth exchange of views on the global and regional terrorism landscape, with particular attention to the evolving threat posed by terrorism in Afghanistan and the region,” the statement from Pakistan’s foreign ministry said.

The dialogue focused on the increasingly transnational nature of terrorism and the growing need for flexible, coordinated strategies to counter it.

Both delegations reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing counter-terrorism cooperation and emphasized that collective efforts are crucial to maintaining regional and global stability.

The two sides also agreed to hold the next session of the working group in 2026.

The previous meeting of the joint working group took place on November 16, 2023, where officials from both countries exchanged views on national strategies and measures to combat terrorism. The forum continues to serve as a vital platform for sharing experiences, intelligence, and best practices in the fight against militancy.