Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with the American chargé d’affaires Natalie Baker
ISLAMABAD:
Pakistan and the United States on Saturday agreed to strengthen cooperation in bilateral security and border management.
It was decided during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and a high-level US delegation led by US chargé d’affaires Natalie Baker.
The meeting featured in-depth deliberations on strengthening relations between Pakistan and the United States and expanding cooperation in areas of common interest.
It was mutually agreed to strengthen existing cooperation with the Anti-Terrorism Assistance Program and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.
During the meeting, the Home Secretary said advanced software would be used to identify people involved in crimes abroad.
The delegation also discussed training programs for officers of FIA, Federal Constabulary and Cyber Crime Agency.
Issues regarding the establishment of a transformational crime center and an academy within the FIA with US support were also explored.
It was agreed to equip border security agencies, coast guards and other institutions with modern US-supplied equipment.
The Home Secretary stated that modern technology would enhance the capabilities of border security agencies and coast guards.
He welcomed US assistance in the reorganization of the Federal Constabulary and in strengthening the capacity of the FIA and the NCCIA.
The Home Secretary added that US support to activate the FIA’s Counter-Terrorism Wing would prove highly beneficial, making it the first federal counter-terrorism wing with effective coordination with the provinces.
Naqvi said the National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA) is conducting a comprehensive crackdown on illegal call centers across the country.
He noted that advanced software is essential to prevent financial fraud and terrorist financing, and the US cooperation with the NCCIA in this regard is very important.
The minister emphasized the need to further expand cooperation with Pakistani institutions. The US delegation appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to increase security cooperation and strengthen bilateral ties.
Acknowledging the ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Interior and US agencies at various levels, the Acting US Ambassador reaffirmed that efforts would continue to further strengthen the partnership with Pakistan.
Interior Minister Talal Chaudhry, Union Home Secretary, DG FIA, Commandant Federal Constabulary, Additional Secretary Interior, DG National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency, DG Pas & Immigration, IG Islamabad Police and senior officials were also present on the occasion.
