Maria Imran 
Pakistan EU counterterrorism cooperation
Pakistan EU counterterrorism cooperation received a boost at the 10th round of the Bilateral Counterterrorism Dialogue held in Islamabad on 22 October 2026, and both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation at multilateral forums, including the United Nations, to advance a coherent counterterrorism approach.
Pakistan EU Counterterrorism Cooperation Gains Fresh Momentum
Director General (Counterterrorism) Dr Fareha Bugti led the Pakistan delegation, while the EU side was headed by Anna Strzaska, Special Envoy for Counterterrorism at the EU External Action Service. The two delegations issued an unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and reaffirmed their commitment to combating the threat.
Solidarity and Shared Security Concerns
The EU condemned recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan, expressed solidarity with affected civilians and recognised the value of Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism. The acknowledgement reflects the sacrifices made by Pakistan and the credibility it holds as a frontline partner.
Both sides voiced concern over the security implications of the situation in Afghanistan and agreed that effective multilateralism is essential for lasting international consensus. The talks also covered evolving threats, including the exploitation of cyberspace, information and energy resources by terrorist groups.
Practical Cooperation and the Road Ahead
Pakistan and the EU exchanged best practices on preventing and countering violent extremism, terrorism financing and radicalisation, with particular attention to terrorists’ use of cyberspace. They identified priority areas for cooperation and reaffirmed regular, institutionalised engagement.
The next round will be held in Brussels on a mutually convenient date next year. Steady security dialogue complements Pakistan’s wider partnership with Europe, including its commitments under the GSP+ scheme, as covered in Pakistan Reaffirms GSP+ Commitment As Shehbaz Meets Top EU Officials. Turning the agreed priorities into joint capacity building and closer information exchange would give the dialogue lasting practical value.
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