Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have committed to increasing their joint efforts to combat drug trafficking. The pledge was made during a meeting between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Chairman of the UAE’s National Anti-Narcotics Authority, on Thursday.
According to the ministry, the two sides held detailed discussions on anti-narcotics efforts and other matters of mutual interest, agreeing to bolster their combined efforts to curb the smuggling of drugs. Mr. Naqvi welcomed Sheikh Zayed and his delegation, emphasizing that combating narcotics is a national priority for Pakistan.
To facilitate closer coordination, the Pakistani government has appointed Major General Abdul Mueed, DG Anti-Narcotics Force, as its focal person, while the UAE has named Brigadier Taher Gharib as its special representative.
Mr. Naqvi congratulated Sheikh Zayed on becoming the first chairman of the newly established UAE National Anti-Narcotics Authority, praising the move as a step towards deeper regional cooperation. “The establishment of this authority will significantly boost joint efforts between Pakistan and the UAE in combating narcotics,” Mr. Naqvi was quoted as saying in an official press release.
He assured Sheikh Zayed of Pakistan’s full support and highlighted the country’s frontline role in the fight against drugs, noting that over 400 suspects involved in trafficking to the UAE have been arrested and five tons of narcotics seized. Mr. Naqvi attributed these successes to joint efforts and timely information sharing, while also warning of an increase in synthetic drug smuggling. He stressed that this “is a war for the future of our generations, and defeat is not an option.”
Sheikh Zayed affirmed the UAE’s commitment to providing all possible cooperation to Pakistan in anti-narcotics operations, underscoring the importance of strengthening bilateral collaboration to ensure a safer future for coming generations.
