Strengthening Regional Cooperation Against Terrorism
Pakistan has formally assumed the chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s (SCO) Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), the Foreign Office announced in a statement. The development is being hailed as recognition of Pakistan’s long-standing efforts and sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism and extremism.
RATS, a permanent body of the SCO, is tasked with coordinating counterterrorism, counterintelligence, and intelligence-gathering operations across member states. Its mandate includes addressing the “Three Evils” – terrorism, separatism, and religious extremism – while laying the groundwork for future enforcement capabilities within the SCO framework.
Pakistan’s Priorities as Chair
The Foreign Office emphasized that Pakistan’s leadership role reflects the confidence of SCO member countries in Islamabad’s contributions toward regional security.
“In its capacity as the Chair of SCO-RATS, Pakistan will work to strengthen regional cooperation against terrorism, guided by the Shanghai Spirit of mutual trust, equality, and shared responsibility,” the statement highlighted.
As chair, Pakistan will also organize activities in key domains, including:
- Cyber counterterrorism and information security
- Border protection measures
- Countering terrorist financing
- Capacity-building for law enforcement
Pakistan’s Global Commitments
As a frontline state against terrorism, Pakistan has consistently shouldered immense sacrifices to safeguard not only its own citizens but also the wider region. The Foreign Office reiterated that Pakistan would continue to coordinate with both regional and international partners to advance collective security efforts, in line with international law and the UN Charter.
Pakistan’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2025–26 term has further strengthened its responsibilities in global counterterrorism initiatives.
Deepening Pakistan-Turkiye Strategic Ties
The announcement coincided with the visit of Turkish Defence Minister Yaşar Güler to Pakistan for the 16th Session of the Pakistan-Turkiye Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC). The delegation held extensive discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, defence, IT, agriculture, education, and cultural exchanges. The JMC sessions also highlighted opportunities for collaboration in energy, pharmaceuticals, connectivity, and tourism, underscoring the brotherly bond between Pakistan and Turkiye.