Tashkent: The 44th Council Meeting of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO-RATS) convened in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, with Pakistan presiding as the current chair of the forum. The meeting featured detailed discussions on regional security issues and the adoption of several key documents for submission to the SCO’s Council of Heads of Member States.

According to Radio Pakistan, the council expressed concern over tensions in the Middle East and emphasized the necessity for dialogue and mutual respect to resolve conflicts in accordance with international law. Additionally, the meeting highlighted the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups in Afghanistan, stressing the importance of enhanced cooperation and joint efforts among member states to counteract this challenge.

The council also announced that Pakistan, which assumed the chairmanship in September 2025, will host the next SCO-RATS Council meeting in September this year. Under its leadership, Pakistan has prioritized mutual trust, equality, and shared responsibility, aligning with the Shanghai Spirit to foster regional cooperation against terrorism and extremism. The country has hosted several events and activities focused on joint information operations, border security, and cyberspace.

As a key player in the fight against terrorism, Pakistan continues to make sacrifices to ensure regional and global security. It remains committed to working with international and regional partners to advance collective efforts against terrorism, in line with the principles of the SCO, international law, and the United Nations Charter.