Bangladesh and Pakistan have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to prevent the illegal trafficking and abuse of narcotics and psychotropic substances.
The agreement, which will remain effective for ten years from the date of signing and is subject to extension by mutual consent, was finalised on Friday.
The MoU was signed by Bangladesh Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and Pakistan Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi on behalf of their respective countries at a ceremony held at the Hotel InterContinental in Dhaka.
Under this strategic alliance, both nations will provide each other with necessary information and technical assistance to prevent drug trafficking and related money laundering.
The agreement mandates the regular exchange of intelligence regarding suspects, trafficking organisations (DTOs), and emerging methods and routes used by criminals.
Key aspects of the cooperation include coordinated intelligence activities and “controlled delivery operations” upon mutual request. Both parties have agreed to cooperate on training and skill development for narcotics control officials, as well as the sharing of scientific research findings.
The collaboration also extends to technical support, where both countries will share expertise in using technological equipment and sniffer dogs for detecting hidden narcotics.
For the exchange of regular and operational information, the Department of Narcotics Control has been designated as the focal point for Bangladesh, while the ANF (Anti-Narcotics Force) will serve as the focal point for Pakistan.
Both sides have committed to maintaining strict confidentiality regarding all shared information and documents, ensuring no disclosure to any third party. The ministers expressed hope that this cooperation would significantly enhance the public health and security of the citizens of both nations.
