Pakistan Sri Lanka security cooperation entered a new phase as both countries agreed to strengthen collaboration against narcotics trafficking, organised crime and illegal immigration. The understanding was reached during a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Interior and Narcotics Control Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Sri Lanka’s Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
The two ministers discussed expanding cooperation in counter-narcotics operations, border management and law enforcement training. Both sides agreed that stronger coordination between their security institutions would help address emerging regional and transnational security challenges more effectively.
To improve efforts against human trafficking, Pakistan and Sri Lanka decided to establish direct communication between the heads of their respective immigration authorities. Officials said the mechanism will facilitate timely information sharing to curb illegal migration and identify forged passports used in international travel.
The meeting also focused on strengthening cooperation against organised crime and financial crimes. The two countries discussed a proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving joint action against organised criminal networks and money laundering activities.
As part of the agreement, Pakistan and Sri Lanka decided to establish a joint working group to enhance institutional coordination between their interior ministries. The group will oversee cooperation in security-related matters and promote regular exchanges of expertise and intelligence.
The ministers also agreed to resolve pending visa-related issues on a priority basis to facilitate legitimate travel and strengthen people-to-people contacts. Officials said easier travel procedures would support bilateral cooperation in various sectors.
The latest agreement reflects the growing partnership between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in addressing cross-border security threats. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to closer cooperation through sustained dialogue, coordinated law enforcement efforts and stronger institutional engagement.
