In a significant move to enhance cooperation in security and law enforcement, Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, met with a Chinese delegation led by Chen Mingguo, Minister of Political and Legal Affairs. The high-level meeting focused on improving collaboration in key areas such as counterterrorism, cross-border security, and combatting drug smuggling and trafficking.
Joint Police Exercises and Training
One of the central outcomes of the discussion was the agreement to hold joint police and paramilitary exercises. These exercises may take place in either Gilgit-Baltistan or Xinjiang, regions crucial to both nations due to their proximity to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). In addition to the exercises, the two countries agreed to provide specialized training for Gilgit-Baltistan police officers at the Xinjiang Police Academy.
Chen Mingguo highlighted Xinjiang’s vast experience in counterterrorism, noting that Pakistan could greatly benefit from its expertise. He also invited Interior Minister Naqvi to visit Xinjiang to further strengthen ties and enhance collaboration on security issues.
Addressing Terrorism and Border Security
Both sides recognized the strategic importance of Pakistan’s 600-kilometer border with Xinjiang, particularly as CPEC passes through this region. Strengthening security along this border is essential for the protection of the economic corridor and the broader region. The meeting concluded with a commitment to a comprehensive strategy aimed at effectively addressing terrorism.
High-Level Representation and Mutual Commitment
The Chinese delegation included senior officials from Xinjiang, including the Deputy Secretary of the Committee for Parliamentary and Legal Affairs, the Executive Director General of Police, and the Vice President of the Xinjiang Police Academy. From Pakistan, key figures such as Interior Secretary Khuram Ali Agha, Special Secretary of the Interior Waqas Ali Mahmood, and Additional Secretary Nazar Muhammad Buzdar were present, underscoring the importance both nations place on this partnership.
China’s Global Law Enforcement Training Initiative
In a related development, China’s Public Security Minister, Wang Xiaohong, announced that China had trained 2,700 police officers from various countries last year and plans to train an additional 3,000 officers in the coming year. This initiative aims to enhance global law enforcement capabilities, with Chinese police consultants being dispatched to countries in need.
The announcement was made during a security conference held in Lianyungang, Jiangsu province, attended by law enforcement representatives from 122 countries and organizations, including Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Interpol.
FAQs
1. What is the main goal of China’s training program for Pakistan police?
The training program aims to enhance the counterterrorism capabilities of Pakistan Police forces, with a focus on law enforcement cooperation, border security, and combating drug trafficking.
2. Where will the joint police exercises take place?
The joint exercises may take place in either Gilgit-Baltistan or Xinjiang, both regions holding strategic importance for Pakistan and China.
3. How many officers does China plan to train globally in the next year?
China plans to train 3,000 police officers from various countries in the next 12 months as part of its global law enforcement training initiative.
4. Why is Xinjiang important in this collaboration?
Xinjiang shares a 600-kilometer border with Pakistan, and it is a key region in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Strengthening security in Xinjiang is crucial for both nations’ economic and strategic interests.
This collaboration marks a significant step in bolstering Pakistan’s law enforcement and counterterrorism efforts, while also reinforcing the strong ties between the two countries.
