ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Malki at the Saudi embassy, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening mutual cooperation and strengthening bilateral relations.

They also discussed collaboration in economic, social and security sectors.

Mr Naqvi thanked Saudi Arabia and the ambassador for their support to Pakistan, particularly in the areas of economic assistance and social development.

Highlighting Pakistan`s resolve to tackle transnational crimes, the interior minister emphasised the country`s keen interest in working closely with Saudi Arabia to combat drug trafficking and human smuggling.

He noted that new passport regulations were being introduced to curb beggary and illegal immigration, and that strict action was being taken against the `organised gangs of beggars`.

While acknowledging the visa-free entry for Saudi citizens into Pakistan, the interior minister said it was a reflection of the strong brotherly ties between the two nations.-APP