The federal government has assured Saudi authorities that effective measures will be taken to dismantle networks involved in sending beggars from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia.

The discussion on dismantling the beggar mafias was made in a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Interior Minister Dr Nasser bin Abdulaziz Al-Daoud on Wednesday.

During the meeting, the ministers discussed enhancing bilateral ties, mutual interests and security cooperation. Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki was also in attendance.

The Saudi deputy minister emphasised their close ties with Pakistan and expressed eagerness to enhance collaboration in various domains.

Elaborating on measures against beggars, Naqvi revealed that 4,300 individuals have been placed on the Exit Control List (ECL) as part of a zero-tolerance policy.

Both sides agreed to expedite the repatriation of 419 Pakistani prisoners currently held in Saudi Arabia, with legal procedures expected to conclude soon.

Discussions included strengthening ties through joint training programmes and exchanges between paramilitary forces and police forces of both nations.

Naqvi commended Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, expressing confidence that Saudi Arabia will emerge as a global leader in economic and social sectors under the current leadership.

“Saudi Arabia is a brotherly Islamic country. Pakistan will extend every possible cooperation to deepen our ties,” said the interior minister.

Senior Pakistani officials, including the additional secretary of interior, chief commissioner Islamabad, and IG Islamabad police were also present in the meeting.