Norwegian envoy lauds Punjab Police’s security measures

LAHORE: Second Secretary Ezra Kurtovic of the Royal Norwegian Embassy and her delegation visited the Central Police Office on Tuesday.

The delegation, which include Norwegian embassy's police liaison officer Per Martin along with other officers, met with Additional IG Welfare and Finance Riaz Nazir Gara. Additional IG Welfare said that security and protection of rights of all foreign nationals, including Norwegians, is a top priority of Punjab police.

Ezra Kurtovic appreciated Punjab Police's effective initiatives for the protection of foreigners and minority rights. Gara mentioned that under the vision to empower women, Punjab Police has increased representation of women within the department, with over 9,000 women delivering exemplary services within the force.

The Norwegian delegation was briefed on infrastructure development, IT reforms, and public service delivery initiatives launched by Punjab Police and the provision of policing services through Virtual Women Police Stations, Police Khidmat Centres, and initiatives for the assistance and rehabilitation of affected individuals.

Additional IG mentioned that Punjab Police has provided assistance to more than 30,000 people belonging to the weaker sections through Tahaffuz Centres, more than 370 MoUs have been signed with various institutions for the relief and rehabilitation of the weaker sections of the society.

Different issues of mutual interests and security of Norwegian citizens were discussed during the meeting. Both sides agreed on addressing mutual challenges and issues through mutual consultation. At the conclusion of the meeting, there was an exchange of souvenirs between Additional IG and Second Secretary of the Norwegian Embassy.