Naqvi calls for joint SCO action on regional security threats

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has called on member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation to enhance regional coordination against terrorism, organised crime, drug trafficking, cybercrime and terror financing. Speaking at a special session of interior and public security ministers of SCO countries in Bishkek, he said the evolving nature of regional threats requires unified, modern and proactive responses from member states. Naqvi noted that terrorist and criminal groups are increasingly taking advantage of artificial intelligence, digital platforms, online networks and cryptocurrency systems to expand their operations. “Shared threats demand shared solutions,” he said while urging participating countries to formulate a joint regional strategy to confront transnational crime and emerging security challenges. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the “Shanghai Spirit,” which promotes mutual trust, cooperation, equality and respect for sovereignty among member states. He stated that Pakistan has rendered significant sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and extremism and continues to strengthen its national security structure to address new and evolving threats. Highlighting steps taken under the National Action Plan, the minister said Pakistan has improved intelligence coordination, strengthened border management and tightened anti-money laundering measures, which have collectively enhanced the country’s ability to tackle terrorism and organised criminal activity. He also called for broader collaboration under the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), especially in areas such as intelligence exchange, joint threat evaluations and countering online extremism and radical propaganda. Cybersecurity featured prominently in his address, with the minister describing digital forensics and cyber intelligence cooperation as an urgent regional necessity. He warned that technological advancements are opening new avenues for terrorist groups and