LAHORE: Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi met United States Consul General Stetson Sanders at the Punjab Home Department, where discussions were held on the improved law and order situation in the province, the professional capacity of security institutions, and matters of mutual interest.
Dr Qazi said the Punjab government was working to enhance safety across the province through modern technology and technical training. He stated that the capacity of law enforcement agencies was being strengthened to maintain law and order. He said 14 modern check-posts were under construction to enhance inter-provincial border security. The protection and welfare of vulnerable segments of society are a priority of the Punjab chief minister. On the chief minister’s directives, a programme has been launched to provide a monthly honorarium of Rs25,000 to mosque imams at a cost of Rs20 billion. Steps are being taken under the jail reforms agenda for the rehabilitation of prisoners, including providing technical training to help them become economically self-reliant and productive members of society.
He said the Civil Defence Resilience Corps had been reorganised on modern lines, adding that registration of 300,000 volunteers had been completed and training was underway in all districts. The Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism is active in Punjab to prevent extremism, and that public awareness is being emphasised for effective implementation of laws. Efforts are also being made for national security as well as the protection and welfare of children.
Stetson Sanders expressed pleasure over his visit to Lahore and said that both countries would explore further opportunities for cooperation in the future for mutual security.
During his visit to the Home Department, the US consul general was also shown high-quality products manufactured by inmates in various Punjab prisons.
The meeting was attended by Special Secretary Home Fazlur Rehman, Additional Secretary Home Asma Ejaz Cheema, Additional Secretary Prisons Roman Burana.
