Pakistan, Bangladesh sign MoU to combat drug smuggling, agree to boost security ties

Pakistan and Bangladesh on Saturday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in combating drug smuggling, narcotics trafficking and drug abuse, with both sides agreeing to boost security ties.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Interior, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met his Bangladeshi counterpart, Salahuddin Ahmed, in Dhaka, where the two sides signed the agreement aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

Naqvi signed on behalf of the Government of Pakistan, while Ahmed signed on behalf of the Bangladeshi government.

"Under the MoU, both countries will fully cooperate to prevent the illegal transportation and smuggling of narcotics. Joint efforts will be made to eliminate the growing trend of drug use in society and counter its negative impacts, while a joint strategy will be formulated to disrupt the illegal sale and supply lines of narcotics," it said.

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The statement further added that the relevant agencies of both countries would also exchange timely information regarding drug smugglers and networks, and would share training of personnel, use of modern technology, and best practices for narcotics prevention.

"The two interior ministers also agreed to establish a secretary-level joint working group between the two interior ministries to take cooperation forward," said the statement.

Further, both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in Pakistan-Bangladesh bilateral relations, internal security, and training of civil armed forces.

"Discussions were also held on increasing cooperation in counterterrorism and the prevention of human smuggling, with the interior ministers agreeing on joint measures to address the matter," it added.

According to MOI, detailed discussions were also held on enhancing mutual cooperation regarding cybercrimes, organised crimes, and financial fraud, as well as cooperation in training programmes for officers at police academies.

Naqvi also offered full cooperation to his Bangladeshi counterpart in the Safe City project. "We will support the Government of Bangladesh in every aspect regarding the Safe City project," he said.

Naqvi also extended an invitation for Ahmed to visit Pakistan. Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Saem, Cabinet Secretary Naseem Ghani, Interior Secretary Manzoor Choudhury, and Pakistan's High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider were also present on the occasion.

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The development comes as Pakistan and Bangladesh continue to strengthen ties across areas of mutual interest. Just a few days ago, Bangladesh Deputy High Commissioner to Pakistan Saqib Sadaqat stated that bilateral trade between the two countries had increased by 20% to reach $1 billion.

Sadaqat added that improved air and sea links were expanding opportunities for two-way trade between the countries, with direct flights and shipping connectivity enhancing commercial prospects.

Earlier, in February, Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rehman discussed strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation across various sectors.

The rapprochement between Pakistan and Bangladesh follows the ouster of the Awami League government. In August of 2025, the two countries signed several agreements to enhance cooperation in trade, diplomacy, media, education and cultural exchanges, marking a significant step in efforts to reset relations after years of strained ties.