Pakistan-US Agree on Enhanced Security Cooperation
Naeem Mehboob
Islamabad:
Pakistan and United states saturday agreed to Enhanced Security Cooperation and expending cooperation in the key areas of mutual interest.
This was agreed during a high level meeting between Federal Minister for Interior & Narcotics Control Mohsin Naqvi with US Ambassador Natalie Baker.Both sides agreed to strengthen collaboration on bilateral security and border management, including existing programs such as the Antiterrorist Assistance Program and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.
Minister interior Naqvi highlighted plans to use advanced software for identifying individuals involved in crimes abroad. The delegation also discussed training programs for officers of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Federal Constabulary, and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The establishment of a Center for Transformation Crime and an academy within FIA, with U.S. support, was also reviewed.
It was agreed that border security agencies, coastal guards, and related institutions would be equipped with modern U.S.-supplied technology to enhance operational capacity. Minister Naqvi welcomed U.S. assistance in reorganizing the Federal Constabulary and strengthening the capabilities of FIA and NCCIA, including the activation of FIA’s Counter-Terrorism Wing to improve coordination with provincial authorities.
The Interior Minister noted that NCCIA is conducting a nationwide crackdown on illegal call centers, emphasizing the importance of advanced software in preventing financial fraud and terror financing. He described U.S. cooperation with NCCIA as highly significant in this regard.
Both sides reaffirmed the need to further expand collaboration between Pakistani institutions and U.S. agencies. The Acting U.S. Ambassador acknowledged ongoing cooperation with the Ministry of Interior and pledged to continue enhancing the partnership.
The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, Federal Secretary Interior, DG FIA, Commandant Federal Constabulary, Additional Secretary Interior, DG NCCIA, DG Passport & Immigration, IG Islamabad Police, and other senior officials.
