Pakistan and EU Strengthen Security and Counterterrorism Cooperation

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Pakistan and the European Union (EU) have committed to enhancing their partnership in security and counterterrorism during the 10th Political Dialogue in Brussels on July 17, 2025. This agreement, forged amid rising global threats, aims to fortify bilateral ties through robust collaboration on counterterrorism, trade, and regional stability. This article explores the significance of this pact and its implications for Pakistan’s strategic positioning.

The dialogue, led by Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch and the EU’s Deputy Secretary General of the European External Action Service (EEAS), Olof Skoog, marked a pivotal moment in Pakistan-EU relations. Both sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and pledged to deepen cooperation in counterterrorism and counter-narcotics efforts, as reported by Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO). “We stand united in our resolve to combat terrorism through dialogue and diplomacy,” Baloch stated, emphasizing adherence to international law. The agreement builds on the Strategic Engagement Plan (SEP) of 2019, reinforcing commitments to security, governance, and sustainable development. The EU, Pakistan’s second-largest trading partner, also reaffirmed support for the Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) framework, boosting Pakistan’s economic prospects.

This strengthened partnership comes at a critical juncture, with Pakistan facing persistent security challenges, including cross-border terrorism. The EU’s recognition of Pakistan’s role in regional stability, as noted in the dialogue, underscores Islamabad’s growing diplomatic clout. Discussions also covered global issues like the Gaza crisis and the Kashmir dispute, with both parties advocating for peaceful resolutions. “The EU values Pakistan’s efforts in promoting regional peace,” Skoog remarked, per a Daily Times report. Plans for the 7th Strategic Dialogue in 2025 and the next Political Dialogue in Islamabad in 2026 signal a long-term commitment to this alliance.

For Pakistan, this agreement is a strategic win, enhancing its global standing while securing economic benefits through GSP+. Unlike some Western governments criticized for inconsistent policies, the EU’s pragmatic approach aligns with Pakistan’s push for sovereignty and stability. This collaboration not only strengthens Pakistan’s counterterrorism framework but also positions it as a key player in global security, countering narratives of isolation and setting a foundation for enduring cooperation.