Islamabad (HRNW)– Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with Acting US Ambassador Natalie Baker, in which issues related to counter-narcotics, security cooperation and prevention of illegal immigration were discussed in detail. Both countries agreed to further strengthen mutual cooperation in the field of intelligence sharing and counter-narcotics.
The US Ambassador offered to provide all possible technical assistance to Pakistan in measures against counter-narcotics and illegal immigration.
On this occasion, Mohsin Naqvi said that Pakistanâs clear policy is to prevent illegal immigration and detection of drugs at airports is a top priority. He said that the latest scanning machines are being installed at all airports, while the zero tolerance policy is being strictly followed.
The Interior Minister added that drugs from Afghanistan are still reaching dozens of countries of the world, which are a threat to the young generation, so the technical support of the US would be welcomed. He said that the National Narcotics Coordination Center will be established soon on the instructions of the Prime Minister.
During the meeting, a briefing was also given on the performance of the ANF and ongoing operations, in which it was informed that under the annual counter-narcotics campaign, 134 tons of drugs were seized, 2001 suspects were arrested, including 75 foreigners, while the value of the seized drugs is $ 12.797 billion.
It was further informed that during operations in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh, 110 Afghan citizens were arrested and 40,659 acres of land were cleared, maintaining poppy-free status.
Acting US Ambassador Natalie Baker praised the performance of the ANF and said that the United States attaches special importance to relations with Pakistan and the two countries will continue to cooperate in every field.
Mohsin Naqvi said that Pak-US relations are important for peace and stability in the region and Pakistan is committed to further strengthening these long-standing relations.
The meeting was also attended by the Federal Interior Secretary, DG ANF, Director Enforcement, representatives of the US Embassy and other officials.
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