ISLAMABAD
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a meeting with Acting US Ambassador, Natalie Baker and the two agreed on enhanced cooperation in preventing illegal immigration, drug trafficking and improving security situation.
During the meeting both sides agreed on launching joint measures to prevent illegal immigration.
Both side reiterated the resolve to strengthening cooperation on drug prevention, information sharing, and implementing a coordinated strategy.
The US ambassador extended offer to provide every possible technical assistance for counter narcotics and preventing illegal immigration.
The interior minister said Pakistan policy is very clear with reference to illegal immigration. Government is taking serous steps to address this problem.
He observed identification of drug cases at airports is top priority. Modern scanning machines are being installed at all airports in the country so that no negligence or weakness remains at any level. Government is strictly pursuing zero tolerance policy for narcotics.
Naqvi also noted that drugs originating from Afghanistan continue to affect numerous countries, including Pakistan, with devastating consequences for the youth. He welcomed the US’s offer for technical assistance in countering drug trafficking.
The interior minister also revealed that, under the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directives, the National Narcotics Coordination Center will soon be established to facilitate coordinated cooperation between all relevant agencies.
A detailed briefing on the performance of the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) was provided during the meeting. It was reported that during the annual counter-narcotics campaign, 134 tons of drugs were seized, and 2,001 individuals were arrested, including 75 foreigners. The total value of the seized drugs amounted to $12.797 billion.
Furthermore, 110 Afghan nationals were arrested in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh, while 40,659 acres of land were cleared to maintain a poppy-free status.
Appreciating the performance of ANF , Acting US Ambassador Natalie Baker said US attaches special importance to its relations with Pakistan and will continue cooperation in all areas in this regard.
Minister Naqvi concluded that Pakistan views its relationship with the US as vital for promoting peace and stability in the region and is committed to further strengthening these longstanding ties.
Federal Secretary of the Interior, Director-General of ANF, Enforcement Director, representatives from the US Embassy, and other officials were also present on the occasion.
