Pakistan and Russia Sign Agreements to Strengthen Cooperation on Illegal Immigration and Drug Trafficking
Pakistan and Russia have signed agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in tackling illegal immigration and combating drug trafficking, according to Pakistan’s Interior Ministry.
The agreements were signed during a meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conference in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
Focus on Border and Law Enforcement Cooperation
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Kolokoltsev agreed to strengthen coordination between law enforcement agencies of both countries.
The understanding includes improved cooperation on preventing illegal migration and facilitating the repatriation of citizens, according to official statements.
Efforts to Combat Drug Trafficking
Both sides also agreed to expand cooperation in efforts to combat narcotics smuggling and drug trafficking. Officials said this step is part of broader regional efforts to address cross-border crime.
Meetings With Regional Counterparts
On the sidelines of the SCO meeting, Pakistan’s interior minister also held discussions with representatives from several Central Asian countries, including Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan.
These meetings focused on improving security coordination, training cooperation, and strengthening institutional ties between law enforcement agencies.
Regional Security Concerns Discussed
During talks with Tajikistan, officials highlighted concerns related to terrorism and narcotics production in Afghanistan, describing them as major regional security challenges.
Discussions also included proposals for enhanced cooperation through joint working groups and information sharing mechanisms.
SCO Commitment Reaffirmed
Pakistan reiterated its commitment to regional cooperation under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation framework, with a focus on countering terrorism, organized crime, drug trafficking, cybercrime, and related threats.
