ISLAMABAD/ROME: Mohsin Naqvi said European countries have openly acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts to curb illegal migration, as he held key meetings with his counterparts from Italy, Spain and Greece on the sidelines of a four-nation conference in Rome.
The meeting focused on measures to prevent illegal migration, human trafficking and related crimes. The European ministers appreciated Pakistan’s actions, noting a reported 47 percent reduction in illegal migration attempts, and commended the country’s enforcement efforts.
Naqvi proposed expanding legal pathways as a strategy to discourage irregular migration, a suggestion endorsed by the three European nations. The participants also agreed to adopt a coordinated strategy at all levels to combat illegal migration and enhance cooperation through the European Union to build Pakistan’s institutional capacity.
The ministers further agreed to develop a joint policy framework against human smuggling, narcotics trafficking and other transnational crimes, while strengthening collaboration in areas of mutual interest. It was decided that criminals involved in serious offences would be deported from Europe to Pakistan for legal proceedings under Pakistani law.
The four sides also emphasized improving rapid response coordination mechanisms and agreed that the next meeting would be held in Pakistan later this year.
Naqvi said authorities had taken firm action against networks involved in illegal migration, adding that Europe remained one of the most affected regions and the challenge could only be addressed through joint mechanisms.
Italy’s Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, Spain’s Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska and Greece’s Migration Minister Athanasios Plevris praised Pakistan’s measures and leadership in tackling illegal migration.
Pakistan’s Ambassador Ali Javed, Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency Dr Usman Anwar and senior officials were also present.