PTBP Web Desk
The United States (US) has reaffirmed its commitment to assisting Pakistan in modernizing the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), aligning its capabilities with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) standards. This agreement was reached during a pivotal meeting in Islamabad between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Acting US Ambassador Natalie Baker.
As part of this collaboration, the United States will also extend support to enhance the operational effectiveness of Pakistan’s National Forensic Agency, ensuring it meets contemporary international standards. This initiative reflects a shared goal of improving Pakistan’s investigative and forensic capabilities to address evolving security challenges effectively.
During the meeting, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi highlighted the crucial role of US support in bolstering the capacity of Pakistani law enforcement agencies. He emphasized the importance of equipping the Civil Armed Forces with advanced tools and equipment, underscoring that counter-terrorism and emergency response preparedness are national priorities.
Naqvi pointed out that modernization of law enforcement is indispensable for combating terrorism and managing emergencies. “Strengthening the capabilities of our law enforcement agencies through international collaboration is a critical step toward ensuring national security,” he remarked. He also noted that the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and the United States has fostered mutual trust and cooperation in areas of shared interest.
The US’s commitment to supporting the FIA’s modernization aligns with its broader objective of promoting stability and security in the region. By aligning the FIA’s standards with those of the FBI, both countries aim to enhance the agency’s efficiency in tackling organized crime, cybercrime, and other transnational threats.
Addressing the issue of foreign nationals in Islamabad, Interior Minister Naqvi clarified the government’s stance. He assured that no foreign nationals possessing valid documentation would face expulsion. However, he stressed that illegal foreign nationals would not be allowed to stay under any circumstances, reflecting a commitment to upholding legal immigration protocols.
This policy underscores Pakistan’s efforts to maintain order while ensuring that law-abiding foreign nationals can continue to reside and contribute to the country’s economy and society.
Acting US Ambassador Natalie Baker extended her best wishes to Pakistan for its preparations to host the Champions Trophy, an event of significant importance for the nation. This gesture symbolizes the US’s goodwill and reinforces the longstanding positive relations between the two countries.
Baker’s meeting with Naqvi is part of ongoing efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation in areas such as law enforcement, counter-terrorism, and forensic science. Such initiatives not only enhance Pakistan’s institutional capacity but also contribute to regional and global security.
The partnership between Pakistan and the United States has historically encompassed various domains, including defense, education, and economic development. The latest collaboration on modernizing the FIA and National Forensic Agency demonstrates a continued commitment to shared goals. These efforts are expected to yield significant benefits for Pakistan, particularly in enhancing its ability to combat sophisticated criminal activities.
Additionally, the focus on modernizing forensic capabilities is a timely move, given the increasing reliance on scientific evidence in criminal investigations. Advanced forensic tools and training will enable Pakistani agencies to solve cases more effectively, ensuring justice is served in a timely manner.
