ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday held a high-level meeting with United States Ambassador to Pakistan Natalie Baker, with both sides agreeing to expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest and further strengthen Pakistan–US relations.
According to the Interior Ministry, the discussions focused on enhancing bilateral collaboration to curb illegal immigration and improve the effectiveness of the pre-immigration clearance system.
THE TWO SIDES ALSO AGREED TO DEEPEN COOPERATION IN LAW-ENFORCEMENT CAPACITY-BUILDING, PARTICULARLY THROUGH SPECIALIZED TRAINING PROGRAMMES FOR THE POLICE.
A key outcome of the meeting was the decision to launch joint operations under comprehensive standard operating procedures (SOPs) against networks involved in fake and fraudulent visa activities. Minister Naqvi reiterated the government’s “zero-tolerance policy” toward agent mafias and individuals facilitating illegal migration, and welcomed US support in tackling the issue.
“I am personally monitoring the crackdown against fake visa networks,” Naqvi said, adding that Pakistan’s passport system has been made foolproof through the use of modern technology. Terming illegal immigration a serious national and international concern, he said the government’s robust enforcement measures against those attempting to migrate illegally, including to the United States, were continuing without interruption.
The interior minister noted that sustained government action has led to a 47 per cent reduction in illegal immigration, stressing that those involved in the preparation or facilitation of fake documentation would be shown no leniency.
US Ambassador Natalie Baker reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to its partnership with Pakistan, underscoring the importance the United States attaches to bilateral ties.
“WE ATTACH SPECIAL IMPORTANCE TO OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH PAKISTAN,” SHE SAID. “OUR PRIORITIES ARE ALIGNED, AND EXPANDING MUTUAL COOPERATION WILL FURTHER STRENGTHEN OUR PARTNERSHIP.”
