Pakistan, US vow to further strengthen cooperation in security and border management

Islamabad (Web Desk): Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control Mohsin Naqvi met a senior delegation from the United States (US) led by Acting US Ambassador Natalie Baker, where extensive talks were held on strengthening bilateral ties and broadening cooperation in areas of shared interest.

The discussion centered on deepening Pakistan-US engagement, particularly in matters related to security and border management.

Both sides agreed to further enhance coordination in bilateral security initiatives and border control mechanisms.

It was also decided to build upon the existing partnership under the Anti-Terrorist Assistance Program and to expand collaboration with the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

During the meeting, Interior Minister Naqvi informed the delegation that Pakistan intends to introduce advanced software systems to help trace individuals involved in criminal activities overseas.

The talks also covered capacity-building and training programs for officers of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Federal Constabulary (FC) and the Cyber Crime Agency (NCCIA).

Proposals regarding the establishment of a Center for Transformation Crime, as well as the setting up of a US-supported academy within the FIA, were reviewed in detail.

The two sides agreed that border security forces, coastal guards and other relevant institutions would be provided with modern equipment with US support.

The interior minister said the use of modern technology would significantly improve the operational effectiveness of border security agencies and coastal guards.

He welcomed American assistance in the reorganization of the FC and in strengthening the capabilities of the FIA and the NCCIA.

Naqvi noted that US support in operationalizing the FIA’s Counter-Terrorism Wing would be especially valuable, adding that it would emerge as the first federal-level anti-terrorism wing with strong coordination with provincial authorities.

Referring to ongoing efforts against cybercrime, the minister said the NCCIA is carrying out a nationwide crackdown on illegal call centers.

He emphasized that advanced technological tools are essential to prevent financial fraud and disrupt terror financing, describing US cooperation with the NCCIA in this area as highly important.
Mohsin Naqvi underscored the need to further expand institutional collaboration between Pakistan and the US.

The US delegation appreciated Pakistan’s initiatives to enhance security cooperation and reinforce bilateral relations.

The acting US ambassador acknowledged the ongoing engagement between the Ministry of Interior and US agencies at various levels and reaffirmed that efforts would continue to further strengthen the partnership.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the Federal Secretary Interior, Director General of the FIA, Commandant of the FC, Additional Secretary Interior, DG NCCIA, DG Passport and Immigration, Inspector General (IG) of Islamabad Police and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.