Pak to examine India's request for extradition treaty

New Delhi, May 28: For the first time,

has promised to examine an Indian request for inking an extradition treaty that will enable each other to bring people, accused of various crimes, to justice. Home Secretary RK Singh informed this on Tuesday.

It is learnt that Pakistan expressed its intention during the recent Indo-Pak Home Secretary-level talks held in Islamabad. 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," Singh told reporters here. He 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 indeed materialises between the two neighbours, it will be helpful for both to exchange criminals and wanted people.

PTI