Why it matters:
Iran and Pakistan share one of the world’s busiest drug-trafficking corridors, frequently exploited by transnational cartels moving narcotics from Afghanistan. Strengthened cooperation between the two countries is vital to address the escalating security, health, and economic risks posed by the regional drug trade.
The big picture:
Both countries face mounting challenges in policing a porous border, which is frequently exploited for opiate smuggling. Enhanced intelligence-sharing and operational coordination remain central to their joint efforts to secure the region from the narcotics trade.
What they’re saying:
Major General Abdul Moeed Hilal Imtiaz, Director General of the ANF, welcomed the Iranian delegation and reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to expand bilateral cooperation.
Brigadier General Iraj Kakavand, Chief of Iran’s Anti-Narcotics Police, praised the ANF’s ongoing performance and pledged full cooperation to strengthen Pakistan’s technical and operational capacity in narcotics control.
Key points:
- The delegations reviewed common border challenges and agreed to enhance joint operations.
- Discussions focused on intelligence-sharing and cross-border operational measures.
- The Iranian delegation is scheduled to visit Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior, the Narcotics Control Center, the ANF Academy in Islamabad, the Addiction Treatment and Rehabilitation,Integration Center in Karachi, and the Port Control Unit in Karachi.
- Both sides emphasized the importance of cooperation to achieve a drug-free border region.
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