Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and US counterpart hold talks to strengthen bilateral ties

ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a key meeting with US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation across areas of mutual interest.

During the meeting, both sides discussed ways to prevent illegal immigration and reviewed the effectiveness of the pre-immigration clearance system. They also agreed to enhance collaboration at all levels for law enforcement training, with a particular focus on police capacity building.

A major outcome of the meeting was the decision to undertake joint action against fraudulent visa networks under comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Minister Naqvi emphasized a zero-tolerance policy against agent mafias involved in illegal immigration, stating that the government welcomes US support in tackling these networks.

“I am personally supervising operations against fake visa networks,” Naqvi said, adding that passports have now been made foolproof with modern technology. He described illegal migration as a serious issue and highlighted ongoing crackdowns against individuals attempting to travel illegally to the United States. According to the minister, effective government measures have already led to a 47 percent reduction in illegal migration.

Naqvi further stressed that individuals involved in fraudulent document networks will not be shown any leniency, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to upholding legal migration standards.

Baker, for her part, reaffirmed that the United States attaches special importance to its relationship with Pakistan. “Our priorities align, and enhancing cooperation will further strengthen our bilateral ties,” she said.

The meeting reflects both countries’ commitment to jointly tackling illegal migration and visa fraud, while promoting broader law enforcement and security cooperation.