Pakistan, China, Iran to Hold Trilateral Meeting on Counter-Terrorism and Security

Pakistan, China, and Iran are set to hold a trilateral meeting focused on counter-terrorism and security in their shared border regions. The meeting aims to neutralize threats from groups targeting Chinese interests and regional stability.

The three countries, which share borders, have a common interest in maintaining stability and protecting their respective interests in the area. The upcoming meeting is part of ongoing efforts by Pakistan, China, and Iran to collaborate on regional security issues and mitigate threats posed by extremist groups operating in the shared border areas.

According to sources, the meeting will review the current security situation and activities of terrorist groups threatening regional stability. China has a strong interest in Pakistan and Iran dealing with the threat together, as their shared border is home to some groups targeting Chinese interests, particularly related to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Recent tensions between Pakistan and Iran over the presence of terrorist groups in their shared border have been resolved, with the two countries agreeing to deploy senior military officials in each other's countries for better coordination. Pakistan and Iran are also discussing a security pact to avoid future escalations and ban terrorist outfits operating in the border region.

China has urged Iran and Pakistan to exercise "calm and restraint" following an exchange of fire against militant targets in their border region. Beijing expressed willingness to "mediate between Pakistan and Iran" to de-escalate the situation. The Pakistani military carried out overnight strikes in Iran, targeting what it called "terrorist hideouts", which resulted in the deaths of three women and four children, according to Iranian state media.

As part of the bilateral security agreement between Pakistan and Iran, the two countries have appointed liaison officers at the rank of colonel to coordinate the joint fight against terrorism. These officers will be stationed in Zahedan, Iran and Turbat, Pakistan. The agreement includes the exchange of information, mutual assistance in the fight against terrorism, and the prohibition of the activities of terrorist organizations active against each country.

Why this matters: The trilateral meeting between Pakistan, China, and Iran underscores the importance of regional cooperation in combating terrorism and maintaining stability in shared border areas. The outcome of this meeting could have significant implications for the security dynamics in the region and the success of joint counter-terrorism efforts.

The upcoming trilateral meeting between Pakistan, China, and Iran is expected to yield important discussions and decisions on counter-terrorism and security cooperation. Pakistani Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah is set to make an important visit to Iran in the coming months, where the finalized text of the Pakistan-Iran security agreement will be signed. The meeting will serve as a platform for the three countries to coordinate their efforts in fighting terrorism and neutralizing threats to regional stability and Chinese interests in the area.

Key Takeaways

• Pakistan, China, Iran to hold trilateral meeting on counter-terrorism.
• Meeting aims to neutralize threats to Chinese interests and regional stability.
• Pakistan, Iran resolve border tensions, discuss security pact to fight terrorism.
• China offers to mediate between Pakistan and Iran to de-escalate situation.
• Outcome of meeting could have significant implications for regional security.