Pakistan is committed to combating terrorism, engaging in dialogues with the UK, EU, and Japan, guided by its NAP and ATA. It aims to dismantle terrorist networks and regulate madrassas, while military operations target militant strongholds. Ongoing challenges include combatting ideological extremism. Recent international collaborations were highlighted along with the visit of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince, leading to several significant agreements.
Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to fighting terrorism through a series of dialogues with the United Kingdom, European Union, and Japan, as stated by the Foreign Office. The country’s counter-terrorism approach is predominantly guided by the National Action Plan (NAP) and the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) of 1997. Key initiatives include dismantling terrorist networks, regulating madrassas, and preventing the financing of extremism.
The formation of the National Counter-Terrorism Authority (NACTA) serves to streamline cooperation between intelligence and law enforcement agencies. Pakistan has executed military operations such as Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad that specifically target militant bases. However, Pakistan continues to face challenges in addressing ideological extremism and achieving sustainable de-radicalization, particularly in light of changing regional security situations and militant strategies.
In a recent press briefing, FO spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan announced the second round of Pakistan-UK Counter-Terrorism Dialogues held on February 17-18. Discussions covered the security dynamics in Afghanistan as well as the threats posed by terrorist groups. On February 20, Pakistan engaged in its ninth Counter-Terrorism Dialogue with the EU in Brussels, led by counter-terrorism directors from both sides.
Khan also noted the fourth round of counter-terrorism consultations with Japan took place on February 26 in Tokyo, focusing on national and regional terrorist threats. The Pakistani delegation was headed by Ambassador Nabeel Munir, while the Japanese team was led by Ambassador Hiroyuki Minami, emphasizing their collective commitment to address evolving terrorism challenges.
Additionally, the FO spokesperson mentioned the recent official visit of Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Accompanied by a high-level delegation, the visit culminated in the signing of five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) across various sectors, including banking and infrastructure, enhancing bilateral cooperation between the countries.
In summary, Pakistan is proactively engaging in international dialogues to bolster its counter-terrorism strategies while reaffirming its commitment to combat terrorism in all forms. The establishment of NACTA and recent military operations highlight Pakistan’s efforts while acknowledging ongoing challenges in addressing radicalization. Furthermore, international collaboration with nations like the UK, EU, and Japan emphasizes a concerted global approach in fighting terrorism.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
