Out of FATF Grey List, But Not Out of Trouble: Pakistan’s Terror Links Raise Fresh Concerns

New Delhi: The decision to exclude Pakistan from FATF's 'grey list' is now again at the center of debate. Although on paper it was news of relief, the ground situation seems to tell a different story. Recent reports have raised serious questions over both the timing and effectiveness of this decision.

A report by Canada-based Geopolitical Monitor clearly says that removing Pakistan from the list was probably a hasty step. According to the report, the activities of terrorist groups and their funding still continue fearlessly in the country. That is, the flaws that were claimed to be removed were not completely eliminated.

Are terrorist networks really becoming stronger again?

The report claims that organizations like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed have become active again. Their continued presence and operational capacity indicate that compliance with international standards to prevent money laundering and terror financing is still incomplete.

In some cases it has even been said that the laxity or tacit support of the ruling establishment gave these organizations a chance to regain their place. This allegation is as serious as it is worrying.

Are diplomatic initiatives just an attempt to improve image?

In Davos, Pakistan has agreed to join President Donald Trump's new 'Board of Peace'. Officially it was described as a step towards peace and cooperation, but many analysts are seeing it as a strategy to improve the international image. Given the events of the last year, the report says it is not easy to trust such efforts.

What problems may arise in future?

These questions raised before the FATF full meeting to be held in February can create problems for Pakistan. The report warns that the risks associated with 'terror financing' have not yet been eradicated and the global community needs to pay serious attention to it.

Then why blame India?

Meanwhile, Pakistan once again tried to blame India. Pakistan Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi claimed that India is funding terrorist organizations in his country. However, no concrete evidence was presented to support these claims. This statement came at a time when at least 36 people were killed and more than 160 were injured in a suicide attack at a mosque in Islamabad. ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack, yet blame was shifted towards India.

India rejected these allegations outright. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that instead of dealing with its internal problems, Pakistan is blaming others and there is no basis for such baseless allegations.

Questions still remain

Overall the picture is clear. On one hand, there is talk of trust and reform in international forums, on the other hand, the situation on the ground seems to be stuck in the same old cycle. This contradiction now stands as the biggest question on the credibility of Pakistan.