ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - The United Kingdom has announced an additional £8 million in funding to support joint efforts with Pakistan to combat illegal migration, human smuggling and organised crime, while also acknowledging Islamabad’s role in facilitating diplomatic efforts that led to a recent US-Iran agreement.
The announcement was made by Hamish Falconer during his visit to Islamabad, where he held meetings with senior Pakistani officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
According to the British High Commission, the new funding package will strengthen border management and visa systems, enhance information-sharing mechanisms, and provide technical assistance to Pakistani law enforcement agencies in disrupting human trafficking and migrant smuggling networks.
The initiative will also support the return of individuals who have no legal right to remain in the United Kingdom and fund community-based programmes in areas vulnerable to irregular migration. The projects are aimed at addressing the root causes of illegal migration while improving investigative capabilities against organised criminal groups.
During the discussions, both sides exchanged views on regional developments, Pakistan’s economic outlook, ongoing structural reforms, fiscal priorities and opportunities to deepen bilateral economic cooperation.
Falconer also thanked Pakistan for its contribution to diplomatic efforts that helped facilitate the recent agreement between the United States and Iran, describing the development as an important opportunity for regional stability.
“The UK-Pakistan partnership is critical for safeguarding global, regional and British national security through close cooperation against terrorist threats, visa fraud and serious organised crime,” Falconer said.
He added that Britain would continue working closely with Pakistan and other international partners to promote peace and stability in the Middle East and ensure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
During his visit, the British minister also observed a live demonstration of joint law-enforcement operations designed to identify and stop fraudulent visa applicants before departure, helping ensure that only legitimate travellers and students enter the UK.
Separately, Falconer met Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb to discuss economic cooperation, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.