ISLAMABAD: Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi hosted a high-level meeting with an Iraqi delegation led by Lieutenant General Dr. Tahmeir Ismail, Commander of Iraq’s Rapid Response Unit, focusing on key issues including the prevention of illegal immigration and human smuggling.
During the discussions, the delegation addressed several mutual concerns such as refraining from seizing passports from Pakistani pilgrims in Iraq, enhancing facilities for them, and the possibility of training Iraqi police in Pakistan. They also explored cooperation in the Safe City project aimed at bolstering urban security.
Furthermore, the Iraqi team extended an invitation to Minister Naqvi to visit Iraq, emphasizing the need for swift action on the proposal concerning the non-confiscation of pilgrims’ passports. Lt. Gen. Ismail mentioned that this issue would be discussed further with the Director General of Passports and expressed optimism for a resolution.
Highlighting the deepening ties, Lt. Gen. Ismail also noted that Pakistan has decided to provide a visa-free facility to Iraqi citizens, which will soon be implemented. He assured that Iraq would support Pakistan in training initiatives for Iraqi police and the Safe City project.
The meeting was also attended by key figures such as Brigadier General Commander of Protection Regiment Aqeel Kazim, Brigadier General Abdul Hussain, Muhammad Suhail from the Iraqi side, and Federal Secretary Interior Khurram Ali Agha and MD NRTC Brigadier Muhammad Asim from the Pakistani side.
