ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations, with a particular focus on counterterrorism, security, and immigration. This development emerged following a meeting between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and British Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Hamish Falconer, in Islamabad.

According to Radio Pakistan, the discussions between the two officials centered on Pakistan-UK relations and the broader regional situation, including cooperative efforts in counterterrorism, illegal immigration, institutional collaboration, and police training. Minister Naqvi highlighted the positive outcomes of the Upskill Project, an initiative aimed at bolstering the capacity of Pakistani institutions, and reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening professional standards through international partnerships.

Both sides agreed to tackle the issue of fraudulent student visas, a mutual concern, with Pakistan taking firm actions against illegal immigration networks and human trafficking syndicates. Minister Naqvi stressed the government’s resolve to dismantle criminal groups that exploit vulnerable individuals.

On the topic of regional security, Naqvi informed Falconer about terrorist organizations operating from Afghan territory, urging the Afghan government to prevent its land from being used for attacks against Pakistan. The Interior Minister emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to fostering stronger ties with the UK, valuing the longstanding partnership and seeking further cooperation across multiple domains.

Falconer praised Pakistan’s constructive role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran, acknowledging Islamabad’s efforts to ease tensions as significant contributions to global peace. He also commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their historic role in promoting stability.