Pakistan to examine India's request for an extradition treaty

NEW DELHI: Pakistan has promised to examine for the first time an Indian request for an extradition treaty to enable each other to bring to justice people wanted for various crimes, Home Secretary R K Singh said today.

This was stated by Pakistan during the Indo-Pak Home Secretary-level talks held in Islamabad last week, he told reporters here.

Singh said both sides have agreed "in principle" to initiate negotiations on a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) to strengthen cooperation in criminal matters.

"The Pakistani side promised to examine the draft of the MLAT handed over by the Indian side and revert with comments within two months," he told reporters here.

The Home Secretary said the Indian delegation also requested the Pakistani side to consider the possibility of inking an extradition treaty between the two countries.

"They have taken note of our request and promised to get back to us," he said.

If an extradition treaty is reached, it will be helpful for two sides to exchange criminals and wanted people.