Pakistan 'performing well' in checking cross-border crimes: EU Commissioner.

ISLAMABAD -- European Union Commissioner for Migration and Home Affairs Ylva Johansson on Monday lauded Pakistan's role in controlling cross-border terrorism, smuggling, and trafficking and expressed the EU's intent for 'deeper cooperation' in the area of border management.

At a joint press stakeout with State Minister for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar, the EU official said Pakistan was 'performing well' in checking cross-border crimes.

Johansson, who arrived in Islamabad on Sunday on a two-day visit, held meetings with government representatives and authorities on matters pertaining to migration, mobility dialogue, and security cooperation.

EU Commissioner Johansson said her meetings with the officials of Frontier Corps and Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) during her visit to Peshawar focused on the fight against terrorism and organized crimes, and also on the border management activities along with the Pak-Afghan border.

She mentioned that she was 'impressed' by the steps taken by Pakistan's border management authorities, which illustrated the country's effective approach.

Terming Pakistan a 'very important and strategic partner', she said the EU was committed to further building on the 60 years of relations in diverse areas including trade.

The EU, she said, intended to launch a comprehensive dialogue with Pakistan on issues pertaining to migration and mobility.

'The EU and Pakistan have a good base and energy to cooperate not only on controlling illegal migration but to explore the possibilities for legalized migration of skilled workforce,' she said.

She mentioned in this regard the EU's 'aging society' that needed a fresh workforce equipped with contemporary skills.

On the Afghan refugees in Pakistan, Johansson lauded the generosity of the host country, adding that the EU was experiencing a similar challenge with four million Ukrainian migrants.

She said the EU stood ready in extending its cooperation to deal with the Afghan refugees.

To a question on the killing of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya, she said the freedom of expression remained of utmost importance and fundamental to democracy.

State Minister Khar said Pakistan gave high importance to...