Pakistan, US delegation agree to strengthen security, border cooperation

‎Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a meeting with high-level US delegation led by Ambassador Natalie Baker, where both sides agreed to enhance collaboration in bilateral security and border management, a statement said on Saturday.

According to the details, the meeting featured in-depth deliberation on boosting Pakistan-US relations and expanding cooperation in shared areas of interest.

“Both sides agreed to enhance collaboration in bilateral security and border management. It was mutually agreed to further strengthen existing cooperation with the Antiterrorist Assistance Programme and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs,” the Interior Ministry said.

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‎During the meeting, Naqvi said advanced software would be used to identify individuals involved in crimes abroad.

The delegation also discussed training programmes for officers of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Federal Constabulary, and Cyber Crime Agency.

“Matters relating to the establishment of a Center for Transformation Crime and an academy within FIA with US support also came under review.

“It was agreed to equip border security agencies, coastal guards and other institutions with modern US-supplied equipment.”

Mohsin Naqvi stated that modern technology would enhance the capacity of border security agencies and coastal guards.

‎Interior minister welcomed US assistance in the reorganisation of the Federal Constabulary and in strengthening the capabilities of the FIA and the National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA).

He added that US support in activating FIA’s Counter-Terrorism Wing would prove highly beneficial, making it the first federal anti-terrorist wing with effective coordination with provinces.

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Naqvi said the NCCIA was carrying out an extensive crackdown on illegal call centers across the country. He noted that advanced software wa vital for preventing financial fraud and terror financing, and US cooperation with NCCIA in that regard was highly significant.

‎The minister emphasised the need to further expand collaboration with Pakistani institutions.

“The US delegation appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to increase security cooperation and strengthen bilateral ties.”

‎”The Acting US Ambassador acknowledged the ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Interior and US agencies at various levels and reaffirmed that efforts would continue to further enhance partnership with Pakistan,” the Interior Ministry said.