Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was briefed on Friday regarding government officials facilitating individuals engaged in the misuse of Afghan Transit Trade for smuggling.
During a meeting chaired by the PM to address smuggling concerns, a committee report was presented, as stated by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). “The committee identified the individuals involved in the misuse of Afghan Transit Trade for smuggling, as well as the officials aiding them,” the report noted.
The PM was informed that a list of smugglers, hoarders, and their accomplice officials had been forwarded to law enforcement agencies and provincial governments.
Consequently, the PM instructed the removal of the identified officials from their respective positions and the initiation of disciplinary proceedings against them.
During the meeting, the prime minister commended Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Syed Asim Munir for his cooperation in combating smuggling.
The report of the investigation committee, led by A.D. Khawaja, was presented during the meeting.
Calling for penalties against smugglers and drug dealers, the prime minister urged the law ministry to expedite legislation for this purpose.
He emphasized the need for more effective monitoring of the sale and smuggling of Afghan Transit Trade goods in the country, advocating for a third-party audit of the monitoring system.
PM Shehbaz ordered the complete eradication of sugar smuggling and the immediate allocation of funds to assess the prevalence of drug consumption. The meeting was briefed on various smuggling activities, including those related to drugs, sugar, wheat, fertilizers, petroleum products, and illegal weapons.
It was reported during the meeting that law enforcement agencies had recently conducted a raid on a warehouse containing smuggled goods in Mastung, seizing items worth over Rs10 billion.
Later, an EU delegation led by Ambassador Riina Kionka paid a courtesy call on PM Shehbaz. The prime minister appreciated the EU’s support through the GSP Plus scheme and expressed interest in engaging with the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy through the European Investment Bank.
The EU ambassador briefed the PM on cooperation initiatives, including ongoing discussions on migration and mobility issues, and facilitating European businesses in Pakistan. Progress on the resumption of flights from Pakistan to EU countries was also discussed.
