China, Pakistan, Iran Conduct Historic Anti-Terror Talks
ISLAMABAD: In a significant development indicating changing regional dynamics, China, Pakistan, and Iran held their first-ever historic anti-terror talks on countering terrorism.
According to a statement released by the foreign office, the inaugural Pakistan-China-Iran Trilateral Consultation on counter-terrorism and security took place in Beijing, China, on June 7, 2023. The meeting was held at the Directors General level.
Leading their respective delegations were Abdul Hameed, Director General (Counter Terrorism) from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, Bai Tian, Director General of the Department of External Security Affairs from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, and Seyed Rasoul Mosavi, Assistant to the Foreign Minister and Director General of South Asia from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran.
During the talks, the delegations engaged in comprehensive discussions on the regional security situation, with a particular focus on the prevailing terrorism threat in the region. As a result of these consultations, the decision was made to establish a framework for regular Trilateral Consultations on counter-terrorism and security. Further details regarding this framework will be finalized in due course.
Furthermore, Director General Abdul Hameed, representing the Pakistani delegation, and Director General Syed Rasoul Mosavi, leading the Iranian delegation, also paid a courtesy visit to Nong Rong, the Assistant Foreign Minister of China.
Regional Alignments Shift
Additionally, the Chinese foreign ministry issued a separate statement, highlighting the “in-depth” exchanges between the three countries regarding the regional counter-terrorism landscape. They also agreed to convene these meetings on a regular basis.
This meeting signifies a shift in regional alignments, with China taking a leading role. Recently, Beijing successfully mediated a landmark agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran, resulting in the restoration of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Many experts view China, Pakistan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Russia as natural allies, as their interests increasingly converge in today’s bipolar world.
Stay informed and engaged with the PakWeb by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and participating in our Discussion Forums.
