Afghan soil being used against Pakistan, Naqvi tells Norway FM as two discuss counterterrorism cooperation

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi informed his Norwegian counterpart, Espen Barth Eide, that Afghan territory is being utilized for terrorist activities targeting Pakistan. The statement came during a meeting in Pakistan focused on enhancing counterterrorism cooperation between the two nations.

Eide, who arrived for a two-day visit, the first by a Norwegian foreign minister in a decade, engaged in discussions with Naqvi covering bilateral relations and the broader regional situation. A key focus was the shared concern over the activities of banned organizations operating from Afghanistan and their impact on Pakistan.

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Afghan soil is continuously being used for terrorism in Pakistan.

Naqvi emphasized Pakistan's role as a bulwark against terrorism, stating, "Pakistan stands as a wall between the world and terrorist elements." He urged collective action for the complete eradication of terrorism. The ministers also explored avenues for improved cooperation in preventing illegal immigration, enhancing police training, and facilitating mutual legal assistance.

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Pakistan stands as a wall between the world and terrorist elements. Everyone must work together for the complete eradication of terrorism.

During the meeting, Eide acknowledged Pakistan's "constructive and active" role in regional security, particularly in the context of the US-Iran war. Naqvi highlighted Pakistan's success in reducing illegal immigration to Europe by 47 percent, attributing this achievement to a "zero-tolerance policy" and the promotion of legal immigration channels. He noted that these efforts have garnered appreciation from the European Union.

Naqvi expressed his belief that Eide's visit would serve as a significant milestone in bolstering the relationship between Norway and Pakistan. The Norwegian Foreign Minister also recognized the contributions of the Pakistani diaspora in Norway across various sectors, including politics and healthcare. Earlier engagements on Thursday involved discussions on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, technology, climate resilience, maritime affairs, and security.

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Pakistan’s effective measures have led to a 47 per cent reduction in illegal immigration to Europe. A zero-tolerance policy has been adopted against illegal immigration.