Pak-US Counterterrorism Dialogue in Islamabad has reinforced both nations’ resolve to confront evolving militant threats and adapt to new security challenges. Officials from Pakistan and the United States pledged deeper cooperation against groups using advanced technologies, signaling a stronger security partnership.
High-Level Talks in Islamabad
The meeting took place on Tuesday and was co-chaired by Pakistan’s Special Secretary for the United Nations Nabeel Munir and the US Department of State’s Acting Coordinator for Counterterrorism Gregory D. LoGerfo. The discussions aimed to enhance strategies for tackling militant networks and emerging dangers posed by non-state actors.
It was the third such dialogue in less than two years, following earlier sessions in May 2024 and March 2023. The repeated engagements point to a renewed phase in joint counterterrorism efforts.
Building Institutional Strength
Both delegations stressed the importance of strong institutional frameworks. They emphasized the need to develop capabilities that could counter the use of emerging technologies for terrorist activities.
A joint statement from the Pakistani foreign office said the United States praised Pakistan’s continued success in containing terrorist entities threatening regional and global peace.
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Targeting Key Militant Groups
Talks focused on the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Daesh’s Khorasan chapter, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The US moved decisively a day before the talks, designating the BLA and its Majeed Brigade unit as “foreign terrorist organizations.”
The designation followed the BLA’s claim of a deadly train hijacking in Pakistan’s southwestern mountains last year, which killed 31 soldiers, staff, and civilians. Washington’s move aims to restrict the group’s funding and global support networks.
Shifts in Militant Tactics
Pakistan briefed the US on recent trends, including TTP militants using commercial drones in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These drones targeted both security forces and civilian areas, marking a dangerous evolution in insurgent methods.
The talks also addressed ways to adapt intelligence-sharing and operational strategies to counter such innovations.
Expanding Global Cooperation
The two nations agreed to strengthen collaboration in multilateral platforms, especially the United Nations. Their goal is to promote effective and lasting approaches to counterterrorism.
After the formal dialogue, LoGerfo met Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Dar called for sustained, structured engagement on counterterrorism, highlighting its role in ensuring peace and stability in the region and beyond.
History of Complex Cooperation
Pakistan and the United States share a long, often turbulent, history of security cooperation. Islamabad played a central role during the US-led “War on Terror” after the September 11, 2001 attacks, particularly in military operations in Afghanistan.
Relations, however, have not always been smooth. Disagreements over counterterrorism strategies and accusations of mistrust have repeatedly strained ties. During former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s tenure, relations hit a low point after he alleged US involvement in his political removal — a claim denied by Washington, the Pakistani military, and his political rivals.
Renewed Engagement Under Trump
Under current US President Donald Trump’s administration, bilateral relations have warmed. Both sides have shown greater willingness to expand military, counterterrorism, and economic cooperation.
The recent dialogue reflects this shift. Instead of focusing solely on traditional militant threats, both nations are now prioritizing the need to address cyber tools, drone warfare, and other modern tactics employed by extremist groups.
Shared Security Interests
Officials on both sides view the partnership as vital to regional stability. By sharing intelligence, coordinating operations, and targeting financial networks, Pakistan and the US aim to disrupt militant organizations before they can launch large-scale attacks.
The designation of the BLA and its special operations unit represents a concrete step in this strategy. US officials say such measures will not only curb funding but also send a strong signal that violent separatist movements will face global isolation.
Looking Ahead
The latest Pak-US Counterterrorism Dialogue highlighted a shift from reactive operations to proactive, technology-driven strategies. Both nations recognize that militant groups are adapting quickly, using commercial tools for combat purposes.
By strengthening institutional frameworks, expanding global partnerships, and targeting the root of extremist financing, Islamabad and Washington aim to stay ahead of evolving threats. The challenge remains significant, but the renewed commitment marks a notable step toward a more secure regional future.
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