US offers Pakistan ‘full technical aid’ for counter-narcotics operations, curbing illegal immigration

ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Acting US Ambassador Natalie Baker on Saturday discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation in counter-narcotics and security, as well as taking joint measures to prevent illegal immigration.

During the meeting, both sides agreed to further strengthen collaboration in drug interdiction and intelligence sharing. The acting US ambassador offered full technical assistance for counter-narcotics operations and efforts to curb illegal immigration.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Naqvi said that Pakistan has a clear and firm policy regarding illegal immigration. He said that detecting drug smuggling at airports remains the top priority, and the most advanced scanning machines are being installed at all airports nationwide.

“Pakistan is strictly implementing its zero-tolerance policy against narcotics,” he said.

The ‎interior minister observed that drugs from Afghanistan still find their way into dozens of countries, causing immense harm to the younger generation. He said Pakistan would welcome US technical support for counter-narcotics initiatives. He also announced that the National Narcotics Coordination Centre would soon be established following the prime minister’s instructions.

During the meeting, a detailed briefing was given on the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF)’s performance and ongoing operations across the country. It was shared that under the annual counter-narcotics campaign, 134 tons of narcotics were seized, 2001 suspects including 75 foreign nationals were arrested, and drugs worth 12.797 billion dollars were confiscated.

It was further informed that in Balochistan, KP, and Sindh, 110 Afghan nationals were arrested and 40,659 acres of land were cleared to maintain a “poppy-free status.”

The US official appreciated the performance of the ANF and said that the United States places special importance on its relations with Pakistan and will continue cooperation in all areas.

Naqvi said Pakistan-US relations are vital for promoting peace and stability in the region, and “Pakistan is committed to further strengthening long-standing bilateral ties.”

The meeting was attended by the federal secretary interior, DG ANF, director enforcement, representatives of the US Embassy and other officials. Staff Report