ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United Kingdom have agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at curbing illegal activities, as expressed during a meeting in Islamabad attended by Pakistani and British officials. The agreement was reached during discussions between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, and British Minister of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs Stephen Doughty.

According to Radio Pakistan, the meeting focused on enhancing Pakistan-UK relations and cooperation in areas of mutual interest, particularly addressing issues related to illegal immigration, counter-narcotics, and counter-terrorism. A significant point of discussion involved the need for joint measures to address the issue of individuals traveling to the United Kingdom on fake student visas.

The meeting also included discussions on the situation in the Middle East, highlighting Pakistan’s role in the region and the importance of diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions. Additionally, participants reviewed the progress made during the 90-day period of the Joint Working Group and considered future actions, including the border situation with Afghanistan.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the importance of strict scrutiny in cases involving Pakistani students traveling abroad on fake student visas. He noted that the Anti-Narcotics Force had seized 55 metric tonnes of drugs destined for the United Kingdom. British Minister of State Stephen Doughty acknowledged Pakistan’s actions against online fraud within the country.