Naqvi tells Norway FM of Afghan soil misuse

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan and Norway have agreed to enhance cooperation in various areas, including counterterrorism, prevention of illegal immigration, police training and mutual legal assistance.

This came at a meeting between Intrerior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide in Islamabad.

Mohsin Naqvi said Pakistan's effective measures have contributed to a forty seven percent reduction in illegal immigration to Europe.

He said Pakistan has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against illegal immigration. He said the European Union has also appreciated the country's measures in this regard.

Naqvi stressed that promoting legal immigration is essential for effectively curbing illegal migration.

The situation in Afghanistan and the activities of proscribed organizations operating from its soil were also discussed.

Naqvi said Afghan territory is continuously being used for terrorist activities against Pakistan. He said Pakistan is standing as a wall between the world and terrorism,stressing the need for collective efforts to completely eliminate the menace of terrorism.

The Norwegian Foreign Minister appreciated Pakistan's constructive and active role in helping de-escalate tensions between the United States and Iran.