ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Friday said Pakistan was making every possible effort to secure its border, and stop illegal border crossing and human trafficking.

Talking to Canadian High Commissioner Leslie Scanlon, who called on him at the ministry, he said that all necessary measures were being taken for capacity building of the relevant institutions in this regard.

He said that the immigration system was also being upgraded and added that further improvements were also being made in the electronic travel authorisation system and visas would be issued within 24 hours.

The interior minister pointed out that Pakistan can provide skilled manpower to Canada in various fields. He also said that the migration of skilled manpower will also help in reducing the incidences of illegal human trafficking.

He emphasized that the Constitution of Pakistan ensures equal rights to all minorities and protection of their rights was the responsibility of the government.

Naqvi said that Pakistan was providing all possible facilitation for the transfer of Afghan refugees to Canada. During the meeting, issues of mutual interest and bilateral relations were discussed in detail.

The discussion revolved around border security, immigration and curbing human trafficking and drug trafficking. The high commissioner thanked the interior minister for his cooperation in various fields.

Federal Interior Secretary Khurram Ali Agha, a representative of the Canadian High Commission and senior officials were also present during the meeting.

Published in Dawn, June 22nd, 2024