ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Russia agreed to activate their bilateral anti-terrorism dialogue during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev on Tuesday, according to an official statement from the interior ministry.
Both nations have been grappling with threats from armed militant groups. Pakistan has complained of “cross-border” attacks by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) originating from Afghanistan, allegations denied by Kabul’s interim Taliban administration.
The country has also been targeted by ethnic Baloch separatists, who accuse the state of exploiting Balochistan’s rich mineral resources without benefiting local communities. The Pakistani government, however, says it has launched several development projects in the region to improve the quality of life for its residents.
Russia has also faced terrorism on its soil. On March 22, 2024, a deadly attack occurred at the Crocus City Hall concert venue near Moscow, killing over 140 people and injuring many others. The attack, claimed by Daesh militants, was one of the deadliest in Russia in recent years.
“Terrorism is an international challenge, and only through multifaceted joint efforts can this menace be controlled,” Naqvi said, according to his ministry’s statement.
During the meeting, both sides discussed enhancing cooperation in counter-terrorism and anti-narcotics efforts.
They agreed to increase mutual exchanges of delegations to strengthen collaboration further.
Russian Ambassador Khorev also extended an invitation for Pakistani officers to participate in anti-narcotics training programs in Moscow and Siberia.
“We will promote mutual contacts to further strengthen relations with Russia,” Naqvi said, emphasizing the broad opportunities for bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
