Pakistan and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations particularly in counterterrorism, security and immigration domains.
The understanding to this effect was reached during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and British Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Hamish Falconer in Islamabad today.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed in detail Pakistan-UK relations and the broader regional situation, with special focus on expanding cooperation in counter terrorism, illegal immigration, institutional cooperation and police training.
In his remarks, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi highlighted the progress achieved through the Upskill Project, noting that the initiative has produced encouraging results and significantly enhanced the capacity of Pakistani institutions.
He said the government is committed to strengthening professional standards and institutional capabilities through international partnerships.
The two sides agreed to work closely on addressing the issue of fraudulent student visas, which has emerged as a growing concern for both the countries.
The Interior Minister emphasized that Pakistan is taking indiscriminate action against illegal immigration networks and human trafficking syndicates. He underscored the government’s determination to dismantle criminal groups exploiting vulnerable people.
Turning to regional security, Mohsin Naqvi informed the British Secretary of State at Foreign Office that several terrorist organizations are operating from Afghan soil. He said the Afghan government must prevent its soil from being used for carrying out terrorist activities against Pakistan.
The Interior Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to stronger relations with UK, saying that Pakistan values its longstanding partnership with the United Kingdom and wants to further enhance cooperation across multiple fields for the benefit of both countries.
Speaking on the occasion, the British Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office appreciated Pakistan’s constructive and active role in facilitating understanding between the United States and Iran.
He said Pakistan’s efforts to easing tensions between Washington and Tehran have projected Islamabad as an important advocate of global peace. He termed Pakistan’s contribution as a significant step toward regional and global peace.
The British Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office also commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for playing a historic role in promoting peace and stability.
