Islamabad, 19 January 2022 (TDI): Interior Minister of Pakistan Sheikh Rashid Ahmed and United Kingdom’s High Commissioner Christian Turner discussed the repatriation treaty. The two had a meeting in Islamabad on Tuesday. Matters of mutual interest of both countries were discussed.
Islamabad. January 18, 2022
British High Commissioner to Pakistan His Excellency Dr. Christian Turner calling on Minister for Interior Sheikh Rashid Ahmed in his office on Tuesday.@BritishCouncil @GovtofPakistan @PakPMO pic.twitter.com/j2I5FVLsW4— Sheikh Rashid Ahmed (@ShkhRasheed) January 18, 2022
Treaty on Repatriation of criminals
Earlier, a ministerial committee formed by the federal cabinet had a meeting. In these lines, one of the outcomes was the decision to sign an agreement in the interest of both countries. Additionally, the parties involved stated that before further proceedings they will consult British authorities.
For this reason, in today’s meeting, they discussed that convicted citizens must return to their countries to receive a fair trial. This is to respect the national procedures and internal law of each State.
In this way, Interior Minister highlighted that the Pakistani diaspora in the United Kingdom is of immense value to the country. That is why they both seek to promote their bilateral ties.
United Kingdom’s High Commissioners’ remarks
Christian Turner appreciated the friendly relationship between the two countries. He acknowledged the multi-faceted nature of the relations.
Furthermore, he pointed out the role of Pakistan in the evacuation of people from Afghanistan. When talking about people he mentioned the assistance provided to both the foreigners and Afghan citizens.
In this regard, it is important to mention that Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi was also present during the talks. Not to mention Human Rights Minister Shireen Mazari and Interior and Accountability Advisor Shahzad Akbar who attended the meeting too.
Some historic facts about the treaty
On the other hand, the negotiations on this kind of extradition treaty first took place in October of 2019. Further developments took place in 2021. The matter of former Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif was also talked over in 2021.
As far as recent developments are concerned, these sorts of measures established by the UK and Pakistan will deepen relations further between the two countries.
