Pakistan and Lebanon Agree to Strengthen Security Cooperation
Pakistan and Lebanon have agreed to expand cooperation in security and law enforcement, including counterterrorism, anti-narcotics efforts, immigration, money laundering and cybercrime prevention.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar in Islamabad. The talks included a one-on-one meeting followed by discussions between delegations from both countries.
Pakistan, Lebanon Plan New Security Cooperation MoU
During the meeting, both sides agreed to work toward signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between their interior ministries to strengthen institutional cooperation.
The two countries also discussed greater collaboration between police academies and training institutions, including opportunities for professional exchanges and joint training programmes.
Officials also agreed to improve intelligence sharing to help address terrorism, drug trafficking and other emerging security challenges. Both sides emphasized the importance of implementing the existing agreement on cooperation against narcotics.
Talks Cover Immigration and Cybercrime
The discussions covered several areas of internal security, including the prevention of illegal immigration, measures against money laundering and efforts to tackle cybercrime.
Pakistan and Lebanon also exchanged views on the regional security situation and efforts to promote lasting peace.
The two sides expressed their intention to further strengthen bilateral relations and discussed possible visa-free entry arrangements for holders of diplomatic and official passports.
Ishaq Dar Reaffirms Support for Lebanon
Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar also met Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad.
During the meeting, Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. The two sides also discussed bilateral relations, law-enforcement cooperation and regional developments.
Earlier during Al-Hajjar’s visit, Pakistan and Lebanon signed an agreement concerning the transfer of sentenced persons, providing a legal framework for eligible convicted nationals to serve the remainder of their sentences in their home countries.
Dar and IAEA Chief Discuss Regional Situation
Separately, Ishaq Dar held discussions with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi regarding the evolving regional situation.
According to official information, the two sides agreed on the importance of implementing the Islamabad MoU as a means of helping reduce regional tensions. Grossi also offered technical support if required.
Pakistan Reviews UN General Assembly Programme
Ishaq Dar also chaired a meeting to review preparations for Pakistan’s participation in the upcoming 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
The foreign secretary and special secretary for the United Nations briefed the deputy prime minister on the proposed programme, including high-level engagements, bilateral meetings and other diplomatic activities planned on the sidelines of the UNGA session.
The meeting also reviewed arrangements and priorities for Pakistan’s participation in the high-level session.
