Offers full support for strengthening institutions fighting illegal immigration
ISLAMABAD:
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held important meetings in Rome with his Italian and Spanish counterparts and the Greek Minister of Immigration, on the sidelines of a quadrinational conference aimed at combating illegal immigration.
Interior ministers from the four countries attended the conference in Rome to discuss coordinated strategies to curb illegal immigration. Italy, Spain and Greece praised Pakistan for its effective measures, noting a 47% reduction in illegal migration to their countries.
The three European countries also endorsed Pakistan’s proposal to block illegal immigration through legal channels, agreeing that structured legal channels can significantly reduce irregular movements.
In a major development, ministers agreed that the European Union will strengthen Pakistan’s capacity building efforts, offering full support to strengthen institutions tackling illegal immigration.
The four countries agreed to adopt a comprehensive, multi-layered strategy to combat illegal immigration, human trafficking and drug trafficking. A common policy framework will be developed and criminals involved in serious crimes will be repatriated from Europe to Pakistan for legal proceedings – a decision finalized at the meeting.
The ministers highlighted strengthening cooperation in all areas of mutual interest and agreed to establish a rapid response mechanism to ensure immediate and coordinated action.
Another key outcome was the decision to hold the next meeting in Pakistan later this year.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said Pakistan had taken strong action against mafias involved in illegal immigration, adding that Europe remained the worst-affected region. “This challenge can only be overcome through a joint mechanism,” he said.
Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska and Greek Migration Minister Athanasios Plevris praised Pakistan’s efforts and thanked Minister Mohsin Naqvi for his leadership.
Pakistan Ambassador Ali Javed, FIA Director General Dr Usman Anwar and other senior officials were also present during the meeting.
