Islamabad: Pakistan and Russia moved to strengthen law enforcement cooperation during Russian Interior Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev’s visit, with discussions covering counterterrorism, organised crime, information sharing and extradition.

Following talks with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the two sides agreed to finalise a draft arrangement for the extradition of criminals and expand cooperation between their anti narcotics agencies.

Delegations would exchange visits and the ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation between Pakistan’s National Police Academy and its Russian counterpart. Naqvi said Pakistan wanted to benefit from Russia’s experience in tackling cybercrime.

A separate account of Tuesday’s talks said the ministers discussed terrorism, extremism, weapons and drug trafficking, telephone fraud, phishing and cryptocurrency scams.

Kolokoltsev stressed prompt information exchange, closer cooperation through Interpol and sharing expertise in cybercrime investigations. He also expressed Russia’s readiness to expand professional training for Pakistani specialists.

The Russian minister also visited Islamabad Police Lines with Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry. He inspected a parade and praised the force’s discipline and operational standards.

In a separate meeting at Aiwan e Sadr on Tuesday, President Asif Ali Zardari called for stronger cooperation in counterterrorism, trade, energy and regional connectivity.

Zardari sought expanded oil and gas cooperation, the resumption of direct flights and improved cargo links. He also called for visa facilitation for Pakistani businesspeople, tourists and students.

Kolokoltsev said bilateral trade remained below its potential and invited Zardari to visit Russia, according to the presidency’s statement.