Pakistan, US to boost border cooperation

Israel objects to line-up of US president's panel

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan and the US on Saturday agreed to enhance collaboration in bilateral security and border management.

This was decided during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and a high-level US delegation led by US Chargé d'Affaires Natalie Baker.

The meeting featured in-depth deliberation on boosting Pakistan-US relations and expanding cooperation in shared areas of interest.

It was mutually agreed to further strengthen existing cooperation with the Anti-terrorist Assistance Program and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

During the meeting, the interior minister said that advanced software would be used to identify individuals involved in crimes abroad.

The delegation also discussed training programs for officers of the FIA, Federal Constabulary, and Cyber Crime Agency.

Matters relating to the establishment of a center for transformation crime and an academy within the FIA with the US support also came under review.

It was agreed to equip border security agencies, coast guards and other institutions with modern US-supplied equipment.

The interior minister stated that modern technology would enhance the capacity of border security agencies and coastal guards.

He welcomed US assistance in the reorganisation of the Federal Constabulary and in strengthening the capabilities of the FIA and the NCCIA.

The interior minister added that US support in activating FIA's Counter-Terrorism Wing would prove highly beneficial, making it the first federal anti-terrorist wing with effective coordination with provinces.

Naqvi said that the National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA) is carrying out an extensive crackdown on illegal call centers across the country.

He noted that advanced software is vital for preventing financial fraud and terror financing, and US cooperation with the NCCIA in this regard is highly significant.

The minister emphasised the need to further expand collaboration with Pakistani institutions. The US delegation appreciated Pakistan's efforts to increase security cooperation and strengthen bilateral ties.

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

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, Federal Secretary Interior, DG FIA, Commandant Federal Constabulary, Additional Secretary Interior, DG National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency, DG Passport & Immigration, IG Islamabad Police and senior officials were also present on the occasion.