ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Norway have committed to strengthening their cooperation in areas such as counterterrorism, prevention of illegal immigration, police training, and mutual legal assistance. This agreement was reached during a meeting between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Norway’s Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide in Islamabad.

According to Radio Pakistan, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi highlighted Pakistan’s effective measures that have led to a 47% reduction in illegal immigration to Europe. He emphasized the country’s zero-tolerance policy against illegal immigration and noted that the European Union has acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts. Naqvi underscored the importance of promoting legal immigration to curb illegal migration effectively.

The meeting also addressed the situation in Afghanistan and the activities of proscribed organizations operating from Afghan territory. Naqvi expressed concerns that Afghan soil is being used for terrorist activities against Pakistan, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to eradicate terrorism. Additionally, the Norwegian Foreign Minister praised Pakistan’s active role in easing tensions between the United States and Iran.