Pakistan, Malaysia agree on joint working group, security cooperation

Pakistan and Malaysia have reached an agreement to form a joint working group between their interior ministries. This collaboration aims to bolster institutional cooperation in several key areas, including counter-terrorism, counter-narcotics, prevention of illegal immigration, and cybercrime. The understanding was forged during discussions between Pakistan's Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, and Malaysia's Home Affairs Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

The talks also addressed the enhancement of cooperation in coast guard activities and training programs, as well as the strengthening of ties between the National Police Academy of Pakistan and the Royal Malaysia Police College. Both nations expressed interest in boosting tourism and facilitating visa procedures between their countries.

Interior Minister Naqvi expressed optimism that the Malaysian minister's visit would mark a significant milestone in deepening bilateral relations. He suggested that an increase in the work permit quota for Pakistanis could facilitate more legal travel to Malaysia.

Additionally, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail met with President Asif Ali Zardari. Zardari emphasized the necessity of a unified strategic alliance between Pakistan and Malaysia, particularly in combating transnational networks engaged in human trafficking and migrant smuggling. This step is seen as a crucial move towards regional security stabilization.

Zardari acknowledged the positive strides made in enhancing institutional cooperation, especially in the realms of internal security, immigration, and legal and judicial matters.