Pakistan, UK agree to expedite extradition deal

Federal Minister for Interior Sheikh Rashid and British High Commissioner Christian Turner on Tuesday agreed to complete at the earliest all formalities for an extradition treaty proposed to be signed between the two countries.

The meeting reviewed progress on the proposed treaty for bringing back convicted persons and those wanted in heinous crimes. Both sides agreed to complete all formalities at the earliest.

According to APP, Christian Turner called on Sheikh Rashid to discuss matters of mutual interest. During the meeting, the interior minister noted that Pakistan has strong ties with the United Kingdom and the image of Pakistan in the world has improved due to positive security advice by the UK.

“It is very unfortunate that those looting the national kitty of poor states manage to escape to other countries and there is a need to take steps against such persons,” Rashid was quoted as saying.

The British high commissioner expressed satisfaction over internal security in Pakistan and measures taken by Islamabad to combat the Covid-19 pandemic. He laid stress on the need for promoting trade and tourism between the two countries

In a media talk late last year, Rashid had said that extradition of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and former finance minister Ishaq Dar was not in the government’s hands, as the country did not have an extradition treaty with Britain.

Nawaz Sharif, who was declared a proclaimed offender by Pakistani courts last year, has been residing in London since late 2019 after he was granted a four-week permission to travel abroad for medical treatment.

Ishaq Dar had also been declared an absconder following his repeated absence from hearing of cases pending against him. He is also currently residing in London.