Bangladesh, Pakistan discuss regional security, law enforcement cooperation

Bangladesh and Pakistan have discussed strengthening regional security cooperation, intelligence sharing and enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies during a high-level meeting between the two countries.

The discussions took place this afternoon (8 May) at Hotel InterContinental in the capital, where Pakistan's Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi held a courtesy meeting with Bangladesh Home Affairs Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, reads a ministry press release.

During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on a range of issues of mutual interest and agreed on the need to enhance coordination between law enforcement agencies and deepen judicial cooperation.

Discussions also focused on intelligence sharing to combat trafficking in persons (TIP) and smuggling of migrants (SOM), along with joint efforts to dismantle trafficking networks. The ministers also stressed the importance of protecting trafficking victims and expanding public awareness programmes.

According to the release, both sides highlighted the importance of signing a Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters (MLAR) agreement to facilitate faster exchange of information and evidence in criminal investigations.

Such cooperation would help strengthen efforts to tackle cross-border crimes.

The meeting also discussed strengthening extradition mechanisms related to terrorism and financial crimes to prevent offenders from escaping justice by fleeing across borders.

The two ministers further discussed expanding training programmes in modern policing and criminal investigation techniques, as well as establishing secure communication channels for intelligence exchange, particularly in tackling cybercrime and organised crime.

During the talks, Salahuddin called for greater international support for the safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation of the Rohingya people.

The two sides also discussed how Pakistan could help increase constructive international engagement with Myanmar on the issue.

Pakistan also shared a draft agreement aimed at preventing terrorism, drug trafficking, smuggling and document forgery. Bangladesh is currently reviewing the proposal in light of decisions taken at an inter-ministerial meeting held on 27 October 2025.

The meeting further discussed the status of files sent to the law ministry regarding the proposed release of three Pakistani prisoners recommended by the home ministry.

Among those present at the meeting were Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani, Senior Home Secretary Monzur Morshed Chowdhury, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, and Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider.

Both sides expressed optimism about continuing bilateral dialogue and cooperation in the future, the release added.