Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister held a key meeting on Saturday with the US Charge d’Affaires to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation on shared priorities.
The talks centered on joint efforts to combat illegal immigration, including the evaluation of pre-immigration clearance systems. Both sides agreed to boost cooperation at all levels, particularly in law enforcement training and capacity building, with a focus on police development.
Pakistan and the United States will conduct joint operations targeting fake and fraudulent visa networks, adhering to comprehensive standard operating procedures.
Minister Mohsin Naqvi reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy against the so-called “agent mafia” involved in human smuggling and visa fraud, noting that US cooperation is welcomed.
“I am personally overseeing the crackdown against fake visa networks,” Naqvi said, adding that Pakistan’s passport system has been strengthened with modern technology.
Illegal travel under scrutiny
Calling illegal immigration a serious issue, Naqvi said a full-scale crackdown is underway against those attempting to reach the United States through unlawful means. He added that government measures have reduced illegal immigration by 47 percent and stressed that individuals involved in fake document networks will face strict consequences.
US Charge d’Affaires Natalie Baker said Washington attaches high importance to its relationship with Pakistan. She noted that both countries share common priorities and that closer cooperation would further strengthen ties.
Background on US immigrant visa pause
The U.S. government announced in mid‑January that it would pause processing and issuance of immigrant visas, including green cards, for nationals of about 75 countries, including Pakistan.
The suspension, which took effect Jan. 21, is part of a comprehensive review aimed at tightening screening and vetting procedures to ensure new immigrants meet stringent eligibility standards and are not likely to rely on U.S. public assistance.
While applicants may still submit forms and attend interviews, no immigrant visas will be issued during the pause, and nonimmigrant visas, such as tourist, student, or work visas, are not affected. Pakistani officials have described the measure as temporary and expressed hope that routine processing will resume once the review is complete.
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