Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi meets US Ambassador to Pakistan Natalie Baker in Islamabad on Saturday. SCREENSHOT
ISLAMABAD:
Pakistan and the United States on Saturday decided to launch joint operations under comprehensive SOPs against networks involved in fake and fraudulent visa activities.
The decision was taken during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and US charge d’affaires Natalie Baker.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest and strengthening bilateral relations.
According to the Ministry of the Interior, the two officials had in-depth discussions on strengthening collaboration, particularly in the fight against illegal immigration and improving the effectiveness of the pre-immigration control system.
The two sides also agreed to increase cooperation at all levels in the training of law enforcement, particularly the police.
The Interior Minister reiterated that the government has adopted a “zero tolerance policy” towards agent mafias and those who facilitate illegal immigration. He welcomed the support of the United States in this regard.
“I am personally monitoring actions against fake visa rings,” Naqvi said, adding that Pakistani passport has been made foolproof with modern technology.
Calling illegal immigration a serious problem, he stressed that the government’s vigorous crackdown on those trying to reach the United States illegally continues.
Naqvi said effective government measures have resulted in a 47 percent reduction in illegal immigration.
He stressed that those involved in the production or facilitation of false documents deserve no leniency.
The US envoy reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to its relations with Pakistan.
“We attach particular importance to our ties with Pakistan,” she said. “Our priorities are aligned and expanding mutual cooperation will further strengthen our relations.”
