Pakistan, UK Strengthen Security Cooperation, Discuss Counter-Terrorism Efforts

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a key meeting on Thursday with Graeme Biggar, Director General of the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), to discuss enhancing bilateral collaboration in critical areas of law enforcement and security. The meeting, which took place in Islamabad, was attended by high-ranking officials, including British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta) National Coordinator, Director Generals of the National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA) and National Forensics Agency, as well as representatives from Islamabad Police.

During the session, both sides delved into a broad range of topics, including counter-terrorism strategies, narcotics control, human trafficking prevention, forensic sciences, and police training. Emphasis was placed on bolstering cooperation to curb online child exploitation and the exchange of forensic expertise.

Key Agreements and Future Initiatives

One of the major outcomes of the talks was an agreement to finalise five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Pakistan and the UK, aimed at strengthening cooperation on extradition and other critical security sectors. The two sides also committed to enhancing training programs for Pakistan’s anti-narcotics and law enforcement officers, with the goal of advancing their capabilities in tackling modern security challenges.

Minister Naqvi highlighted the need for modern forensic support and advanced training to boost Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies’ capacity. He also underscored ongoing collaborative efforts with the UK to address illegal immigration.

A Shared Commitment to Combat Terrorism

The discussions also touched on terrorism, with both sides expressing concern over recent developments in Pakistan. The NCA’s Biggar condemned the suicide attack in Islamabad earlier this week, which claimed the lives of 12 individuals, including lawyers and petitioners at the District Judicial Complex. He conveyed his sympathy over the loss of life and reaffirmed the NCA’s commitment to continued cooperation in the fight against terrorism.

Interior Minister Naqvi also took the opportunity to reiterate Pakistan’s stance on terrorism, stating, “Terrorism’s roots are linked to our neighboring country.” He emphasized Pakistan’s determination to eradicate terrorism and noted that the world cannot overlook Pakistan’s resilience and unwavering resolve in the face of growing terror threats.

Ongoing Security Challenges

Since the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has faced an uptick in terror incidents, particularly in its Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan provinces. The security situation has worsened due to cross-border terrorist attacks originating from Afghan soil. Despite repeated calls for the Afghan Taliban regime to prevent its territory from being used to launch attacks inside Pakistan, terrorist groups continue to infiltrate from Afghanistan, further destabilizing the region.

This recent wave of cross-border terrorism also led to violent border clashes between Pakistani and Afghan forces in October. However, tensions have eased following a ceasefire agreement brokered by the Afghan Taliban regime.

Looking Ahead: A Joint Effort Against Terrorism and Crime

Both Pakistan and the UK remain committed to enhancing their partnership in combating transnational crimes and terrorism. With several MoUs soon to be formalised and more collaborative training initiatives on the horizon, the bilateral ties between the two countries in the realm of security are set to strengthen, contributing to global counter-terrorism efforts.