Pakistan, Sri Lanka agree to joint group to combat narcotics, organised crime

WEB DESK: Pakistan and Sri Lanka have agreed to boost security ties, reinforcing cooperation in counter-narcotics efforts, border management, and law enforcement training, official sources said.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between Federal Interior and Narcotics Control Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Sri Lankan Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

To streamline operations against human trafficking, the two sides decided to establish immediate, direct contact between the heads of their respective immigration authorities. This mechanism will focus on curbing illegal immigration and detecting forged passports used for international travel.

During the huddle, the ministers discussed a proposed memorandum of understanding (MoU) designed to target organised crime syndicates and money laundering networks. They also agreed to set up a joint working group to deepen institutional collaboration between the interior ministries of both nations.

Additionally, both sides committed to resolving outstanding visa-related issues on a priority basis to facilitate legitimate bilateral travel.