Bangladesh and Pakistan have agreed to strengthen coordinated efforts to combat narcotics trafficking through information sharing, joint intelligence operations and capacity-building initiatives.
To this end, the two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday aimed at enhancing cooperation in preventing illegal drug trafficking, money laundering and drug abuse.
The agreement was signed at a ceremony held at the InterContinental Dhaka. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and Pakistan Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi signed the document on behalf of their respective governments.
Deputy Chief Information Officer of the Ministry of Home Affairs Faisal Hasan said the MoU provided for regular exchange of information and technical assistance to curb drug trafficking and related money laundering activities.
He said both sides would also share intelligence on suspected individuals, trafficking networks, and emerging methods and routes used in drug smuggling.
Under the agreement, the two countries will exchange information on drug traffickers and criminal organizations, and cooperate on intelligence-led operations, including controlled delivery initiatives.
They will also collaborate on training and capacity building of officials involved in narcotics control, as well as share research findings.
In addition, the countries will exchange technical expertise, including the use of equipment and sniffer dogs for detecting concealed drugs.
The Department of Narcotics Control of Bangladesh and Pakistan’s Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) will serve as focal points for regular and operational coordination.
All exchanged information will remain confidential and will not be shared with third parties, according to the agreement.
The MoU will remain valid for 10 years and may be extended by mutual consent.
