Khawaja Asif calls for regional unity against terrorism at SCO Meeting

WEB DESK: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif leading Pakistan’s delegation at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting on Thursday, stressed the need for enhanced regional security cooperation. In his formal address, Asif strongly condemned Israel’s recent attack on Iran and called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, expressing grave concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Palestine. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the UN Charter principles and international law while urging the global community to play a more active role in resolving longstanding disputes, including Kashmir and Palestine.

The minister branded terrorism as a “shared threat” that should not be politicised, exposing external sponsors behind recent attacks such as the Jaffar Express attack in Balochistan. He also denounced terrorist incidents in Indian-occupied Jammu & Kashmir, reiterating Pakistan’s stance on the issue. On the sidelines of the summit, Asif held substantive bilateral meetings with defence ministers from China, Iran, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan to discuss mutual security concerns and cooperation.

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Pakistan’s participation in the SCO meeting comes at a critical juncture as the country seeks to balance its strategic interests amid shifting regional dynamics, particularly following its recent role in mediating the Iran-Israel ceasefire. The discussions highlighted Islamabad’s continued focus on counter-terrorism and regional stability while navigating complex geopolitical challenges.