RIYADH: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Monday agreed to boost cooperation in the fight against narcotics under the framework of bilateral cooperation.
The consensus was reached during a meeting between Pakistan’s Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control, Mohsin Naqvi, and Saudi Director General of Narcotics Control, Major General Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Qarni in Riyadh.
During the meeting, both sides held detailed discussions on enhancing collaboration to fight drug trafficking. They also agreed to take more effective measures under bilateral cooperation and discussed strategies to tackle the growing challenge of narcotics.
Saudi Arabia also offered to assist Pakistan with advanced drug detection equipment demonstrating its commitment to shared goals.
The Minister also toured the headquarters, observing the control room and other departments, and received a comprehensive briefing on Saudi Arabia’s anti-narcotics initiatives. During the visit, he extended an invitation to Major General Al-Qarni to visit Pakistan for further dialogue and cooperation.
Speaking on the occasion, Mohsin Naqvi stressed the need for joint efforts, stating, “No country can tackle the menace of drugs alone; it has become a shared global challenge. Pakistan will continue its cooperation with Saudi Arabia to create a drug-free environment for future generations.”
The briefing also highlighted ongoing coordination between Saudi Arabia’s Anti-Narcotics Department and Pakistan’s Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF).
Earlier, Mohsin Naqvi congratulated the Saudi leadership and the people on being awarded the hosting rights for the 2034 FIFA World Cup and expressed good wishes for the event.
He made the remarks while talking to the Saudi Minister of State for Interior Dr. Khalid Mohammed Abdullah Al Battal in Riyadh on Sunday.
Earlier this month, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the ‘One Water Summit’ in Riyadh where they discussed strengthening the economic, trade, and investment ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
The Crown Prince expressed his pleasure at the fifth meeting between the two leaders within six months, terming it as a testament to the profound mutual respect and affection shared by the two nations. He underscored that these frequent interactions reflect the strong and enduring bond between the people of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
