LONDON: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi made a comprehensive visit to three major institutions in London: the National Crime Agency (NCA), the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), and the National Situation Center. During his visit, Naqvi met with James Babbage, Director General of the National Crime Agency, and Jonathan Allen, Director General of National Security at the FCDO.
The meetings included detailed briefings on the functions of these institutions, and both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, organised crime, and cybersecurity. Naqvi emphasised the significance of this collaboration, stating, “We welcome the UK’s cooperation to tackle the challenges of cybercrimes. Britain’s support in combating cybercrimes and enhancing cybersecurity will be highly beneficial.”
Discussions also covered increasing efforts to combat drug trafficking, cybercrime, and illegal immigration. Naqvi highlighted the need for coordinated efforts, remarking, “Both countries need to further strengthen cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking.” He underscored the sacrifices made by the Pakistani nation in the war against terrorism, calling for a joint strategy to address this ongoing challenge.
The visit included a tour of the Cabinet Office’s National Situation Center, where Naqvi expressed keen interest in its operations. He praised the centre, saying, “I am pleased to visit the state-of-the-art National Situation Center in the UK. The importance of such a centre during a crisis cannot be denied.” He expressed his intention to establish a similar centre in Pakistan, seeking the UK’s expertise: “We will review the establishment of a National Situation Center in Pakistan and benefit from the UK’s experience and expertise.”
Naqvi also expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and emphasised the importance of bilateral cooperation in ensuring the security of both nations. “This mutual cooperation will secure not only our present but also our future,” he stated.
The visit was attended by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, Dr. Mohammad Faisal, British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, and senior officials from the British Home Office.
