In a significant ministerial meeting on September 27, the Quadrilateral Group comprising Pakistan, China, Iran, and Russia expressed serious concerns regarding the escalating security challenges posed by terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Rising Threats in Pakistan
Since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has faced a notable increase in militant attacks, particularly in the northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and southwestern Balochistan. Recent data from the Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS) highlights a troubling surge in violence, with attacks rising from 38 incidents in July to 59 in August. The report indicated that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa experienced 29 attacks, while Balochistan saw 28.
Regional Cooperation on Counter-Terrorism
During the meeting, attended by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and foreign ministers from China, Iran, and Russia, the ministers condemned various terrorist groups, including Daesh, Al-Qaida, and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), for their role in destabilizing the region. The group emphasized the urgent need for enhanced counter-terrorism cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels.
The statement released post-meeting urged the Afghan Taliban to take decisive action to dismantle terrorist organizations and prevent the use of Afghan territory for cross-border attacks.
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Support for Afghan Sovereignty
The Quadrilateral Group reaffirmed its commitment to Afghanistan’s national sovereignty and the right of its people to determine their future. The ministers called for a stable Afghanistan that would facilitate international cooperation rather than geopolitical tensions. They also urged Afghan leaders to create conditions conducive to the safe return of refugees and support their reintegration into society.
International Community’s Role
The ministers appealed to the international community and donors for sustainable financial support to aid the repatriation of Afghan refugees, particularly those currently residing in Pakistan and Iran. The ongoing repatriation campaign in Pakistan has seen over 500,000 undocumented Afghans return since last year.
The Quadrilateral Group concluded that addressing the intertwined challenges of terrorism and regional stability is essential for the collective security and interests of all member states.
