Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi recently briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on January 30, 2025, concerning several pressing matters, including the law and order situation, the crackdown on human traffickers, his recent visit to the United States, and preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy.
During the meeting held at the Prime Minister’s office, Naqvi detailed his discussions with top U.S. officials, including members of Congress and various business leaders, emphasizing the importance of enhancing bilateral relations.
Naqvi’s assessment of the internal security situation appeared optimistic as he presented updates on the government's active measures against human trafficking. He reported on developments related to the broader law and order conditions across different regions of Pakistan, signaling government efforts to stabilize security.
With the Champions Trophy scheduled to kick off on February 20, 2025, Naqvi assured the Prime Minister about Pakistan’s preparations to host the international cricket event successfully. PM Shehbaz Sharif commended Naqvi and his team for their dedication and hard work leading up to this mega event.
Naqvi's recent visit to the United States on January 20, 2025, featured noteworthy engagements, including attendance at President Donald Trump's oath-taking ceremony. His trip included high-profile meetings with key U.S. senators, including Joe Wilson and Rob Bresnahan. These discussions primarily focused on enhancing Pakistan-U.S. relations, with specific emphasis on regional peace, particularly concerning Afghanistan.
Upon his return, Naqvi expressed hope for improved ties, describing President Trump as "a symbol of hope for global peace" and optimistic about the future impact of his leadership on Pakistan’s foreign relations.
During his U.S. visit, Naqvi attended various events, including dinner meetings hosted by U.S. Congressmen Henry Cuellar and Maxine Waters. The discussions at these gatherings revolved around Pakistan's economic challenges, the framework surrounding the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program, and strategies to bolster bilateral trade and investment.
Naqvi also engaged with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and urged American businesses to explore investment opportunities within Pakistan, particularly targeting the mineral and information technology sectors. His efforts received support from prominent business leaders engaged at the meetings. These included Charles Ferrymen from the U.S. Chamber and Espera Gillaline from the U.S.-Pakistan Business Council.
Looking to build on these connections, Naqvi extended formal invitations to U.S. congressional members and investors, signaling his intent to usher in a new chapter of collaboration between Pakistan and the United States.
Following up on internal security matters, PM Shehbaz Sharif also convened the initial meeting of a newly formed task force aimed at curbing human trafficking. The Prime Minister directed Naqvi’s ministry to work closely with the Ministry of Law and Justice to cultivate comprehensive legislation intended to combat this issue. Sharif underscored the importance of swift enforcement of the Federal Prosecution Act of 2023 and ordered the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to submit findings on human traffickers to the Foreign Office, facilitating their rapid extradition.
Highlighting the seriousness of these concerns, the Prime Minister noted recent developments, identifying 27 human smugglers linked to the tragic Morocco boat capsizing incident earlier this month, out of which five individuals had already been apprehended.
Through these discussions, Naqvi’s meeting with PM Sharif exemplifies the government’s commitment to both enhancing national security and improving diplomatic relations, paving the way for improved economic cooperation and effective governance.