Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the urgent need for collective efforts among Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states to address complex and evolving security threats. Speaking at a special gathering of Interior and Public Security Ministers in Bishkek, he highlighted the increasing challenges posed by terrorism, organized crime, narcotics trafficking, cybercrime, and terror financing that demand a unified regional response.
Naqvi pointed out that criminal and terrorist networks are rapidly leveraging technological advancements such as artificial intelligence, digital platforms, online networks, and cryptocurrency transactions to expand their operations. In light of these developments, he stressed the necessity of modernizing institutional coordination and enhancing intelligence-sharing mechanisms across the region to effectively counter these threats.
“Shared threats demand shared solutions,” Naqvi remarked, urging the adoption of a comprehensive regional strategy to combat transnational crime and emerging security risks. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the SCO’s foundational principles—the “Shanghai Spirit,” which emphasizes mutual trust, equality, cooperation, and respect for sovereignty.
Highlighting Pakistan’s sacrifices in combating terrorism and extremism, Naqvi underscored the country’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its security framework. He referenced initiatives under the National Action Plan, including improved intelligence coordination, enhanced border management, and reinforced anti-money laundering measures, all of which have significantly bolstered Pakistan’s capacity to tackle terrorism and organized crime.
The minister also called for expanded cooperation within the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), particularly in intelligence sharing, joint threat assessments, and countering online radicalization and extremist propaganda. Pakistan fully supports regional workshops and expert exchange programs designed to build collective capabilities.
Cybersecurity was another critical focus of Naqvi’s address. He described cooperation in cyber intelligence and digital forensics as an urgent regional priority, noting that technological progress has created new avenues for criminal and terrorist groups to operate.
On narcotics trafficking, Naqvi warned that the illegal drug trade remains a significant source of terrorist financing. He advocated for a coordinated strategy targeting drug trafficking networks, online criminal activities, and illicit financial flows facilitated by digital currencies. Pakistan’s anti-narcotics force actively participates in SCO-led counter-narcotics initiatives and is prepared to deepen collaboration with partner countries.
Border security was also highlighted as vital for regional peace and stability. Naqvi urged SCO members to enhance cooperation in combating human trafficking, improving watch-list coordination, and preventing the use of forged travel and identity documents.
Regarding financial crimes, the minister emphasized disrupting terrorist financing as a top priority for Pakistan. He detailed reforms aimed at strengthening the country’s anti-money laundering framework and noted that enhanced financial monitoring plays a key role in detecting and preventing illicit financial activities. “Strong regional cooperation is indispensable for dismantling terrorist financial networks,” he asserted, stressing that no nation can tackle transnational threats alone.
In conclusion, Naqvi reiterated that the security challenges faced by SCO member states are shared and require coordinated collective action. He affirmed the common goal of building a peaceful, secure, and stable SCO region. Additionally, he extended an invitation to SCO partners to participate in the upcoming SCO Summit in Islamabad in 2027, expressing confidence that enhanced cooperation will foster lasting regional security and prosperity.
