Pakistan and Lebanon have pledged to broaden their security collaboration and fortify institutional connections, particularly through intelligence exchange and closer coordination between their interior ministries. This commitment emerged during a meeting in Islamabad between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar.

Al-Hajjar, on a two-day official visit to Pakistan, also held discussions with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Chief of Defence Force and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. The talks encompassed a range of security issues including counter-terrorism, narcotics control, combating illegal immigration, and measures to prevent money laundering and cybercrimes.

Further dialogue focused on enhancing cooperation in police training and academy programs. The regional security environment and Pakistan’s initiatives for sustained peace in the area were also key topics of discussion.

At the delegation level, both countries agreed to soon formalize their cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening ties between their interior ministries. They also decided to appoint focal points to improve bilateral coordination and committed to fully implementing the existing MoU on counter-narcotics efforts.

Both ministers reaffirmed their dedication to deepening bilateral relations across various sectors. Discussions also included the possibility of granting visa-free entry for diplomatic and official passport holders to facilitate smoother exchanges.

Interior Minister Naqvi expressed optimism that the Lebanese minister’s visit would pave the way for expanded cooperation between the two nations. In response, Minister Al-Hajjar expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended during his stay and described Pakistan as a brotherly nation. He emphasized Lebanon’s eagerness to enhance collaboration with Pakistan, especially in internal security matters.

The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry along with other senior officials from both countries.