The UK has committed £8 million to aid Pakistan to curb unlawful migration.

The UK has pledged an additional £8 million of assistance to help cooperative efforts with Pakistan to counter illegal migration, human smuggling and organised crime, and also praised Islamabad’s role in supporting diplomatic efforts that led to a recent US-Iran accord.

The declaration came during a visit to Islamabad by Hamish Falconer who met with key Pakistani authorities including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

The British High Commission said the new financial package will improve border control and visa processes, improve ways of sharing information and provide technical assistance to Pakistani law enforcement agencies to break up networks of human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

It will also assist the return of those who have no legal right to be in the United Kingdom and will provide funding to community-based projects in regions vulnerable to irregular migration. The projects involve tackling the core causes of illegal migration and further developing investigative capacities against organised criminal gangs.

During the meetings, the two sides discussed perspectives on regional developments, Pakistan’s economic outlook, ongoing structural reforms, fiscal goals and potential to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation.

Falconer also hailed Pakistan for its role in the diplomatic efforts that contributed lead to the recent deal between the United States and Iran, calling the development an important chance for regional stability.

“The UK-Pakistan partnership is vital for protecting global, regional and British national security through close cooperation against terrorist threats, visa fraud and serious organised crime,” added Falconer.

He said Britain would continue to work closely with Pakistan and other international allies to maintain peace and stability in the Middle East and ensure freedom of travel through the Strait of Hormuz.

The British minister also watched a live demonstration of cooperative law-enforcement operations geared to identify and halt fraudulent visa applicants before they leave for the UK. This helps guarantee that only legal visitors and students come to the UK.

Falconer separately visited Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and discussed economic cooperation. Both sides reiterated their commitment to enhancing bilateral collaboration.