Pakistan, Lebanon agree to deepen diplomatic, security ties

Lebanon's Interior Minister Ahmad al-Hajjar met with Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, as well as Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, in Islamabad on Tuesday. The two countries agreed to enhance their cooperation in security, law enforcement and diplomatic ties. Dar expressed Pakistan's commitment to Lebanon's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, while the two ministers discussed various aspects of bilateral relations and law-enforcement collaboration.

They celebrated the signing of the Agreement on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, marking a significant step in legal cooperation between the two nations. The meeting also touched upon regional and international developments of mutual interest. Al-Hajjar praised Pakistan's contribution to regional peace and stability and congratulated Pakistan on the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement.

Both ministers aimed to broaden cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including combating terrorism, drug smuggling, illegal immigration, money laundering, and cybercrime. They also discussed strengthening intelligence sharing against terrorist and drug networks and the possibility of signing a memorandum of understanding between their interior ministries.

Additionally, the two countries considered the idea of visa-free entry for holders of diplomatic and official passports. The visit was attended by key officials from both countries, including ministers, secretaries, and senior law enforcement officers.