ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United Kingdom have agreed to broaden cooperation in counter-terrorism, drug trafficking, cybercrime, immigration, coast guard operations and professional training, the Ministry of Interior said on Friday.
The agreement was reached during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and British Minister of State for Security Dan Jarvis at the Ministry of Interior, followed by delegation-level discussions.
According to an official statement, Jarvis appreciated Pakistan’s contributions and sacrifices in combating terrorism and commended the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for its efforts to prevent illegal immigration.
Describing cybercrime as a global challenge, the British minister stressed the need for countries to join hands to tackle the growing threat. He also expressed the desire to further expand the existing security partnership between Islamabad and London.
Both sides agreed to finalise a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on counter-narcotics cooperation in the near future. The proposed arrangement will help operationalise collaboration between the UK’s National Crime Agency and Pakistan’s Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF).
During the meeting, Naqvi revealed that Pakistani authorities had foiled 330 drug-smuggling cases involving consignments destined for the UK over the past few years.
The two countries also decided to hold a meeting of the joint working group established between their respective interior ministries to advance cooperation.
Jarvis further appreciated the progress made under the Upskill Project, saying the initiative was contributing to strengthening the professional capabilities of Pakistani institutions.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, along with senior officials from relevant Pakistani government and security agencies, was also present at the meeting.
