Naqvi, US Congressmen Hold Important Meeting

  •   Naqvi has important meeting with US congressmen.
  •   Pakistan’s sacrifices against terrorism unmatched.
  •   Congressmen say there is a need to highlight Pakistan’s role.

The Federal Minister for Interior, Mohsin Naqvi, has strongly asserted Pakistan’s crucial role in combating terrorism, stating that the nation acts as a bulwark, safeguarding the world from this menace.

These remarks were delivered during a significant meeting between the Interior Minister and a delegation comprising US Congressmen Jack Bergman, Tom Suozzi, and Jonathan Jackson.

The discussions encompassed a wide array of topics, including bilateral relations and matters of shared interest. Both parties explored avenues to enhance collaboration in the realms of economy, trade, and investment. Security, counterterrorism efforts, and border security also featured prominently in the dialogue.

Naqvi emphasized that terrorism is a global challenge, urging the international community to provide unwavering support to Pakistan in its efforts.

He underscored the critical importance of sharing intelligence and technology to bolster counter-terrorism initiatives.

Naqvi highlighted that Pakistan’s sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism are unparalleled. He expressed optimism that the US Congressmen’s visit would serve to spotlight Pakistan’s indispensable role in this battle.

The Interior Minister welcomed the US delegation’s participation in the Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025, assuring that the government would extend every possible facility and protection to investors.

He noted that strong and sustainable relations with the US are a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy, lauding the establishment of the Pakistan Caucus in the US on April 30 as a positive development.

The US congressmen acknowledged the necessity of recognizing Pakistan’s contribution to the war against terrorism. They also praised the Pakistani diaspora in the US, recognizing their talent and diligence.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry highlighted the upcoming counter-terrorism dialogue in Islamabad in June, emphasizing its potential to foster mutual cooperation in counterterrorism efforts.

Since the return of the Taliban in Afghanistan in 2021, Pakistan has experienced a surge in violent attacks, particularly in the provinces bordering Afghanistan, such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

The year 2024 was particularly devastating for Pakistan’s security forces, both civil and military, marking the deadliest year in a decade with at least 685 fatalities and 444 terror attacks, according to the “CRSS Annual Security Report 2024” by the Centre for Security and Strategic Studies.

The previous year saw a nine-year high in overall fatalities, exceeding the 2023 figures by over 66%. On average, approximately seven lives were lost each day, with November being the deadliest month across various metrics.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa suffered the highest number of casualties, with 1,616 fatalities, followed by Balochistan with 782. In 2024, the country recorded 2,546 violence-related fatalities and 2,267 injuries among civilians, security personnel, and outlaws.

These casualties resulted from 1,166 incidents of terror attacks and counter-terror operations, underscoring a challenging year for the nation’s security.