ISLAMABAD(National Times)- Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and his Lebanese counterpart, Ahmed Al-Hajjar, on Tuesday agreed to enhance cooperation in security, counterterrorism, anti-narcotics efforts, illegal immigration, money laundering, and cybercrime prevention.

The two ministers held a one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks. They discussed ways to promote collaboration between police academies and training programmes, the regional situation, and Pakistan’s efforts to promote sustainable peace in the region.

It was decided that an MoU would soon be signed to promote mutual cooperation between the two interior ministries. Both sides agreed to share intelligence to effectively combat terrorism, drug trafficking, and emerging security challenges. They also decided to fully implement the existing anti-narcotics MoU. They reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties. They also discussed providing visa-free entry facilities for holders of diplomatic and official passports between the two countries.

Also, Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar called on Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and discussed bilateral cooperation. Mr Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty.

Meanwhile, DPM Dar discussed with Ambassador Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and a candidate for UN Secretary-General the evolving regional situation and agreed that the implementation of the Islamabad MoU remained the best course of action to defuse regional tensions.

Ambassador Grossi offered technical support should the need arise.

Also, DPM Ishaq Dar chaired a meeting on Tuesday to review the programme for the upcoming 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The foreign secretary and UN special secretary briefed the deputy PM on the proposed programme, including high-level engagements, bilateral meetings, and other key engagements on the sidelines of the UNGA session.