ISLAMABAD, Oct 07 (APP):Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry met Poland’s Minister and Head of the Council of Ministers, Tomasz Siemoniak, to discuss bilateral relations and ways to enhance security cooperation between Pakistan and Poland.
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in security, intelligence sharing, counter terrorism, tackling illegal migration, and collaboration between law enforcement agencies. Both sides agreed on the need to give new momentum to bilateral cooperation and increase high-level contacts between the two countries.
The two countries also agreed to finalize various memorandums of understanding, including Mutual Legal Assistance arrangements, at the earliest opportunity. It was further agreed that a delegation from Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior, led by Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, will soon visit Poland to further strengthen bilateral relations.
Speaking on the occasion, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that the Government of Pakistan has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against narcotics, illegal migration, and organized crime. He stated that government measures have resulted in a 64 percent reduction in illegal migration from Pakistan to Europe.
Mohsin Naqvi said that greater bilateral cooperation and coordination could significantly reduce these crimes. In response, Polish Minister Tomasz Siemoniak assured Pakistan of full cooperation in this regard.
Both sides also agreed to promote employment opportunities and legal migration channels for Pakistanis in Europe as part of efforts to eliminate illegal migration. Tomasz Siemoniak said Polish authorities would welcome Pakistani citizens arriving in Poland through legal means.
The Polish minister said Pakistan and Poland share the same position on counterterrorism and security matters. Discussions also covered expanding people-to-people contacts, trade, and business relations between the two countries.
Tomasz Siemoniak emphasized that alongside political and security ties, the promotion of economic relations is equally important. Mohsin Naqvi thanked Poland for its support regarding the European Union’s GSP Plus scheme.
The meeting also included discussions on providing visa-free travel facilities for holders of official passports between Pakistan and Poland.
The Polish minister expressed support for Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
Interior Secretary and other senior officials were also present during the meeting.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
