Pakistan, Lebanon vow to expand security, law enforcement cooperation

Islamabad (Web Desk): Pakistan and Lebanon have agreed to further develop cooperation in the security sector and improve institutional coordination, with intelligence sharing and stronger engagement between the two countries’ interior ministries among the areas of focus, an official statement said on Tuesday.

The understanding was reached during a meeting in Islamabad between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and his Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar.

The two ministers first held a one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks attended by senior officials from both countries.

The discussions covered a broad range of security matters, including counterterrorism, measures to combat drug trafficking, efforts to curb illegal immigration, action against money laundering and cooperation to tackle cybercrime.

The two sides also discussed ways to developing stronger links between police academies and training institutions through joint initiatives and professional exchanges.

The ministers exchanged views on the prevailing regional situation and Pakistan’s efforts to promote lasting peace in the region. They underlined the importance of closer institutional coordination to deal with common security concerns and strengthen cooperation among the relevant authorities.

Both countries agreed to advance work on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between their interior ministries to provide a framework for greater cooperation. They also decided to designate focal persons who would maintain coordination and improve communication between the concerned departments.

Pakistan and Lebanon further agreed to enhance the exchange of intelligence to help counter terrorist organisations, drug trafficking groups and other security-related threats. They also agreed to ensure that the existing MoU concerning cooperation in narcotics control is fully implemented.

The two sides reiterated their resolve to broaden bilateral relations and increase collaboration in areas of shared interest. The meeting also addressed the possibility of providing visa-free entry to diplomatic and official passport holders from Pakistan and Lebanon.

Mohsin Naqvi said he hoped the Lebanese minister’s visit would pave the way for fresh opportunities for cooperation and contribute to closer relations between the two countries.

Ahmad Al-Hajjar expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended to him by Pakistan during his visit.

Calling Pakistan a brotherly country, he said Lebanon wanted to strengthen cooperation in areas of common interest, particularly matters concerning internal security.

He added that Pakistan and Lebanon could make use of their respective experience and expertise to deal more effectively with challenges faced by both countries.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the Federal Interior Secretary, Chairman NADRA, Director General FIA, Director General ANF, Inspector General of the Federal Constabulary, National Coordinator NACTA, Director General Passports and Immigration, Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Inspector General Islamabad Police, Director General of the National Forensic Agency, special secretaries, additional secretaries and other senior officials also attended the meeting.