Home Dept, US officials discuss anti-terrorism efforts

LAHORE: In a significant move towards bolstering anti-terrorism efforts, the Home Department secretary recently convened a meeting with officials from the US consulate and experts from the Anti-terrorism Assistance Program.

The focal point of the discussion was the potential for ATA training and funding to fortify the Civil Defence Punjab. Michael Diamond, Senior Security Attaché, elucidated on the pivotal role of the Anti-Terrorism Assistance (ATA) Program within the US State Department, highlighting its robust funding mechanisms aimed at enhancing training, capacity building and infrastructural development within recipient organizations. Noorul Amin Mengal underscored the relentless endeavours of the government of Punjab in combating terrorism, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Directorate of Civil Defence. The meeting delved into various areas of mutual interest, emphasizing the imperative to explore collaborative opportunities for future endeavours, particularly through capacity building and institutional strengthening of the Civil Defence Punjab.

In attendance were Fazlur Rehman, Special Secretary of the Home Department, Shahid Mahmood, Additional Secretary (Home) and Barakullah Khan, Director of Civil Defence. Joining from the US Consulate Lahore were Michael Diamond, William Maxwell III, George Hirniak and Safdar Ali Rao.

The meeting marks a pivotal step forward in fostering international collaboration to combat terrorism and enhance security measures, underscoring the commitment of both parties towards achieving shared objectives in safeguarding communities against the threats of extremism and violence.