OPTIMIZING SCO-RATS COOPERATION FOR COUNTERTERRORISM IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

The SCO's primary purpose is to address the 'three evil forces—terrorism, separatism, and extremism. These remain the principal concerns of the Organization's leaders, who strive to promote socio-economic development through enhanced connectivity and maintain internal peace and security by collectively combating the menace of terrorism. In this context, the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) under the SCO is highly beneficial for member states in addressing the threat of transnational terrorism. Pakistan cannot combat the menace of transnational terrorist syndicates alone. Therefore, it needs the assistance of like-minded states, especially SCO members, to enhance the efficacy of its counterterrorism strategy. It raises three interlinked questions. What is the SCO counterterrorism mechanism? Why have terrorist groups' activities increased since the withdrawal of the U.S. troops from Afghanistan? How is Pakistan Optimizing SCO Cooperation for Counterterrorism in Pakistan?

Bibliography Entry

Jaspal, Prof. Dr. Zafar Nawaz. 2026. "Optimizing SCO-RATS Cooperation for Counterterrorism in Pakistan." Strategic Thought (7): 115-128.