Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi meets the American ambassador to Pakistan Natalie Baker in Islamabad on Saturday. SCREEN GRAB
ISLAMABAD:
Pakistan and the US on Saturday decided to launch joint operations under comprehensive SOPs against networks involved in fake and fraudulent visa activities.
The decision was made during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and US chargé d’affaires Natalie Baker.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest and strengthening bilateral relations.
According to the Ministry of Interior, the two officials held detailed talks on strengthening cooperation, particularly in curbing illegal immigration and improving the efficiency of the pre-immigration clearance system.
Both sides also agreed to increase cooperation at all levels in law enforcement training, especially for the police.
The Home Secretary reiterated that the government has adopted a “zero tolerance policy” towards agent mafias and those who promote illegal migration. He welcomed US support in this regard.
“I am personally monitoring the actions against fake visa networks,” Naqvi said, adding that Pakistan’s passports have been made foolproof through modern technology.
He called illegal immigration a serious problem and noted that the government’s robust crackdown on those trying to reach the United States illegally is underway.
Naqvi stated that effective government measures have resulted in a 47 percent reduction in illegal immigration.
He emphasized that people involved in fabricating or promoting false documentation do not deserve any leniency.
The US envoy confirmed Washington’s commitment to relations with Pakistan.
“We attach special importance to our ties with Pakistan,” she said. “Our priorities are aligned, and expanded mutual cooperation will further strengthen our relationship.”
