Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi attended the 7th Budapest Process Ministerial Conference in Hungary.
While addressing the Conference, he said since the last Ministerial Conference held in 2019, several important developments have taken place, says a press release received here on Wednesday from Budapest (Hungary).
The Interior Minister highlighted that today, we are confronted with a range of pressing issues such as prolonged conflicts, economic instability and climate change, that have reshaped migratory flows worldwide.
He said these dynamics create complex challenges that no single country can address alone. He emphasized that it is essential to recognize that these challenges require comprehensive strategies that address not just the symptoms but also the root causes of irregular migration.
The Interior Minister highlighted that Pakistan has taken a number of legislative and administrative measures to curb irregular migration. He said we have empowered our Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) to effectively prosecute criminals involved in human smuggling.
He added that we are also focusing on raising public awareness regarding the dangers associated with migrant smuggling, strengthening our border controls and enhancing regional and international cooperation to address smuggling of migrants.
Mohsin Naqvi stated that we are actively working on enhancing bilateral agreements and talent partnerships with EU (European Union) countries and beyond to promote and diversify legal migration pathways.
He highlighted that there has been a troubling rise in anti-immigrant sentiments across the globe, often fueled by populist rhetoric. He said this trend poses significant challenges.
The Interior Minister hoped that the adoption of the Budapest Declaration will generate fresh political momentum for a balanced approach, ensuring that no aspect of migration is prioritized over another in our future work.
He said Pakistan looks forward to a constructive and mutually beneficial engagement with the Process. He said it is an honor to address this gathering at the 7th Ministerial Conference of the Budapest Process.
Mohsin Naqvi congratulated Co-Chairs Turkey and Hungary and extended a special thanks to the Government and people of Hungary for a very warm welcome in the beautiful and historic city of Budapest.
He also commended the International Centre for Migration Policy Development for their dedicated efforts towards arranging this meeting.