Is Iran Supporting SCO's Anti-Terrorism Initiatives?
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Synopsis
Iran has reaffirmed its commitment to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's (SCO) anti-terrorism strategies, as articulated by a senior diplomat. This collaboration emphasizes Iran's pivotal role in regional security amid rising global concerns over terrorism.
Key Takeaways
- Iran supports SCO's anti-terrorism initiatives.
- Mehrdad Kiaei highlights RATS's role in regional security.
- Sahand-2025 emphasizes collaborative military readiness.
- Iran's experience in combating terrorism is invaluable.
- SCO is vital for political and economic cooperation.
Tehran, Dec 7 (NationPress) Iran has expressed its backing for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's (SCO) strategies and collaborative efforts aimed at countering terrorism, as stated by a senior Iranian diplomat.
Mehrdad Kiaei, the director general for SCO and BRICS Affairs at Iran's Foreign Ministry, made these comments during a meeting with Ularbek Sharsheev, the head of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS). This meeting took place on the sidelines of a collaborative anti-terror exercise, according to a statement from the ministry on Saturday.
Kiaei emphasized the vital role that the SCO and RATS play in Iran's foreign policy, referring to RATS as a “gateway to the future security framework of the region.”
He asserted that Iran's extensive experience in fighting terrorism positions its security and military institutions to contribute in a “constructive and significant” manner within the SCO's anti-terrorism strategy, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Sharsheev commended Iran for hosting the five-day exercise, Sahand-2025, which took place in East Azarbaijan Province, highlighting Iran's “active and influential” role in RATS operations.
Sahand-2025 marks the second joint anti-terrorism drill among SCO member nations. The inaugural exercise, known as “Interaction-2024,” was conducted in July of the previous year in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of northwest China.
The SCO is an organization that encompasses political, economic, and international security dimensions, including countries like China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran, and Belarus.
Earlier on Monday, Iran commenced a five-day joint counter-terrorism drill with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in East Azarbaijan province, bringing foreign forces to a Revolutionary Guards base near Tabriz for what officials describe as a strategic readiness exercise.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight that Iran's engagement in the SCO's anti-terrorism efforts showcases its strategic intent to bolster regional security. Iran's historical experience in combating terrorism positions it as a significant player in these collaborative initiatives, reflecting a broader commitment to peace and stability in the region.
NationPress
07/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SCO?
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a political, economic, and security alliance that includes countries such as China, Russia, and several Central Asian nations, aimed at enhancing regional cooperation.
Why is Iran involved in the SCO's anti-terrorism efforts?
Iran's involvement is based on its strategic interest in combating terrorism and enhancing regional security through collaborative approaches with other SCO member states.
What is the significance of the Sahand-2025 exercise?
Sahand-2025 is a critical joint counter-terrorism drill involving SCO nations, emphasizing collaborative security measures and military readiness among member states.
How does Iran's experience contribute to the SCO's initiatives?
Iran's extensive experience in counter-terrorism allows its military and security forces to play a constructive role in shaping effective strategies within the SCO framework.
What are the goals of the SCO's anti-terrorism initiatives?
The primary goals include enhancing regional security, fostering cooperation among member states, and effectively addressing the challenges posed by terrorism.
