Photo credit: Aljazeera
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stressed the need for the full utilization of modern technology to improve Pakistan’s immigration system, while chairing a review meeting on the eradication of human trafficking and measures against illegal travel abroad.
The Nation reports that he appreciated the efforts of relevant institutions in curbing human trafficking. Referring to recent reports and complaints regarding the offloading of passengers travelling abroad, he commended Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for personally visiting airports to review the situation.
He directed that while taking action against individuals travelling abroad illegally or holding dubious travel documents, special care must be ensured so that passengers with valid travel documents are not inconvenienced. He also instructed that the performance of the Protectorate of Emigrants be further improved and coordination with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and oher relevant institutions be strengthened to facilitate those travelling abroad legally for employment.
Participants at the meeting were briefed on actions taken against illegal gravel abroad. The meeting was informed that the FIA had arrested 451 individuals involved in human trafficking and illegal travel this year. Due to these efforts, the number of Pakistanis travelling illegally to Europe had declined by 47 per cent, while a reduction had also been recorded in cases of travel on illegal documents to the United Kingdom and Gulf Countries.
