In a significant diplomatic engagement, United States Consul General (CG) Stetson Sanders led a delegation to meet with Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi in Lahore on Friday. The high-level meeting focused on the law and order situation in the province and explored avenues for bilateral cooperation on matters of mutual security interest.
Punjab's Modern Security Framework
Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi briefed the American delegation on the Punjab government's comprehensive strategy to enhance provincial safety. He emphasized that the administration is leveraging modern technology and advanced technical training to achieve this goal. A key highlight was the update on 14 modern inter-provincial border security check posts, which are currently at various stages of completion, aimed at tightening security and monitoring cross-border movement.
The Home Secretary stated that capacity building for law enforcement agencies remains a top priority to sustain a peaceful environment. He also outlined the government's focus on protecting vulnerable groups, noting that the welfare of these segments is a top priority for Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. In line with this vision, a landmark program has been initiated to provide a monthly honorarium of Rs. 25,000 to mosque imams, involving a total cost of Rs. 20 billion.
Comprehensive Reforms: Jails and Civil Defence
Dr Ahmed detailed the ongoing jail reforms, which are centered on the rehabilitation of inmates. The government is providing prisoners with technical training to help them become economically self-reliant and productive members of society upon release. During the visit, CG Sanders was shown high-quality products manufactured by prisoners in various Punjab jails, showcasing the practical outcomes of this initiative.
Furthermore, the Home Secretary informed that the Civil Defence Resilience Corps has been completely reorganised on modern lines to meet contemporary challenges. In a massive mobilization effort, registration for over 300,000 volunteers has been completed, and their training is now actively underway across all districts of Punjab.
Countering Extremism and Future Cooperation
On the front of ideological security, Dr Ahmed highlighted the active role of the Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism in preventing radicalization in the province. He added that public awareness campaigns are being strengthened to ensure the effective implementation of laws. The government's commitment extends to the protection and welfare of innocent children, alongside its national security objectives.
US Consul General Stetson Sanders expressed his pleasure at visiting Lahore and acknowledged the discussions. He conveyed that both countries would explore further opportunities for cooperation in the future to enhance mutual security. The meeting was attended by senior officials including Special Secretary Home Fazal-Ur-Rehman, Additional Secretary Home Asma Ejaz Cheema, Inspector General of Prisons Mian Farooq Nazir, and Director Public Relations Tauseef Sabih Gondal, among others.
