Pakistan, which currently holds the chairmanship of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, today successfully chaired the 45th Council Meeting of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO-RATS) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

The Council held detailed deliberations on matters of mutual interest. During the meeting, issues related to regional security were discussed, and a number of reporting documents on the activities of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization were agreed upon for submission to the Council of Heads of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

The Council expressed concern over developments in the Middle East and stressed the need to resolve the conflict through dialogue and mutual respect, in accordance with international law.

The Council further noted, with concern, the threat posed by terrorist groups in Afghanistan and underscored the importance of enhancing cooperation and undertaking joint efforts to counter this threat.

It was agreed that the next meeting of the SCO-RATS Council will be held in September 2026 in Pakistan.

Since assuming the Chair in September 2025, Pakistan has steered SCO-RATS in a professional manner, prioritising shared objectives and guided by the Shanghai Spirit of mutual trust, equality, and shared responsibility to foster regional cooperation against terrorism and extremism.

Under its chairmanship, Pakistan has hosted multiple events and activities across key domains, including joint information operations, border security, and cyberspace.

As a frontline state in combating terrorism, Pakistan continues to make unparalleled sacrifices to ensure the safety and security not only of its own people but also of the region and beyond. Pakistan will continue to work 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.

Islamabad
April 03,2026