ISLAMABAD: UK’s Minister for Middle East, Afghanistan and Pakistan Hamish Falconer has committed an additional £8 million to support joint Pakistan-UK efforts to combat illegal migration and crime, the British government said on Tuesday.
Pakistan and the UK have strengthened their joint efforts to curb illegal migration and crime over the past few years. Both countries signed a major deal in 2022 under which foreign criminals and immigration offenders from the UK can be returned to Pakistan.
Falconer is currently in Islamabad where he has met Pakistani leaders to thank them for brokering a US-Iran peace deal, the UK government said.
“During his meetings with senior Pakistani leadership, the minister also committed an additional £8 million to support joint UK–Pakistan efforts to tackle crime and illegal migration,” the statement said.
It added that the funding will be used to strengthen border and visa systems. The UK government said that the money will also be used to bring in expertise that helps Pakistani law enforcement disrupt people‑smuggling and trafficking networks.
The additional funds will also support the return of Pakistani citizens who have no legal right to remain in the UK and fund community-based programs in high-risk areas to address the root causes of illegal migration.
“This includes support for improving identity and information‑sharing processes, strengthening law enforcement capability to investigate smuggling networks, and expanding community‑based prevention programs that reduce vulnerability to exploitation,” the UK government said.
During his second official visit to Pakistan, Falconer will also witness a live demonstration of joint work by law enforcement to tackle illegal migration, the statement said.
“Backed by UK support, this work sees Pakistani authorities intercept non-genuine visa holders at Pakistani airports, ensuring only eligible travelers and students travel to the UK,” it said.
Falconer will meet Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and officials of the Higher Education Commission during his visit to discuss closer practical collaboration to deter visa abuse.
Pakistan has been struggling to crack down on human smuggling and illegal migration. Several Pakistanis each year attempt dangerous journeys via sea to travel to Europe in hopes of securing a better financial future for themselves and their families.
