Pakistan and the United States have agreed to strengthen cooperation in counter-narcotics, intelligence sharing, and security. The understanding came during a meeting between Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Acting US Ambassador Natalie Baker on Saturday.
Both sides highlighted the need for joint action against drug trafficking and illegal immigration. The minister said Pakistan continues to face challenges from drugs entering the region through Afghanistan. He added that these drugs harm young people across the world.
Naqvi welcomed the US offer to provide technical assistance for stronger counter-narcotics operations. He said such support would help Pakistan improve its ability to stop drug smuggling.
The Interior Ministry shared a detailed update on the performance of the Anti-Narcotics Force. Officials reported that 134 tons of drugs were seized this year. Authorities arrested 2,001 suspects, including 75 foreign nationals. They also detained 110 Afghan nationals during operations in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh.
The ministry said 40,659 acres of land used for drug cultivation were cleared. The total estimated value of the seized drugs reached $12.797 billion.
The meeting also discussed steps to prevent illegal immigration. Naqvi said Pakistan has a clear policy on the issue. He added that new scanning machines are being installed at airports to improve border security.
Both sides agreed to enhance intelligence sharing and adopt stronger measures to stop unauthorized movement across borders.
Ambassador Baker praised the recent performance of the Anti-Narcotics Force. She reaffirmed the US commitment to provide technical assistance for counter-narcotics and immigration control.
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Naqvi said Pakistan and the United States share important ties. He noted that stronger cooperation would support regional peace and stability. He also expressed hope for deeper bilateral relations in the coming months.
