Pakistan and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their counterterrorism cooperation at their annual bilateral dialogue in Islamabad, with both sides expressing concern about militant groups operating in and from Afghanistan. The meeting took place on Wednesday, 4 November, according to a Foreign Office statement reported by Pakistan TV and other outlets.

The Pakistani delegation was led by Fareha Bugti, Director General for Counter Terrorism, while the British side was headed by Thomas Barry, Director for National and Economic Security at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The talks reviewed the regional and international security environment and the changing nature of terrorist threats, the reports said.

TTP threat and a stable Afghanistan

Both delegations expressed concern about the continuing threat posed by terrorist groups, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), operating in and from Afghanistan. They underlined the need for a stable and secure Afghanistan as a foundation for lasting peace and prosperity in the region, according to the statement.

The dialogue also covered new trends in terrorism, including misinformation and disinformation campaigns, the exploitation of social media platforms and emerging technologies. The two sides discussed exchanging best practice and exploring new avenues for partnership in response, the statement said.

Next round set for London

The British side expressed condolences for the loss of innocent lives in terrorist attacks in Pakistan and said the UK stands with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism, according to the statement. The two sides agreed to strengthen institutional links and maintain regular engagement, with the next round of the dialogue to be held in London in 2027 on mutually agreed dates.

Sources: Pakistan TV, Pakistan, Britain express concerns over threat posed by terrorist groups, including TTP, 4 November 2026; Daily Imroz, reporting Radio Pakistan, Pakistan, UK reaffirm counterterrorism cooperation in Islamabad talks, 4 November 2026; Khyber Chronicles, Pakistan, UK Join Forces to Counter Cross-Border Terrorism, 4 November 2026.