Pakistani religious pilgrims to Iraq to be facilitated
Pakistan and Iraq have announced new
measures to ease travel for Pakistani pilgrims heading to Iraq for Arbaeen, a
major religious observance.
In a key development following a
high-level meeting between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Iraqi
Ambassador Hamid Abbas Lafta, several initiatives were unveiled to facilitate
pilgrimages.
Effective immediately, Pakistani
pilgrims traveling to Iraq for Arbaeen—marking 40 days after the martyrdom of
Imam Hussain (RA) and also known as Chehlum—will no longer be required to
surrender their passports upon arrival. Additionally, the Iraqi Embassy will
handle visa issuance directly, eliminating the need for travel agents and
increasing the quota for Pakistani pilgrims.
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allows Iraq's national airline for additional flights to accommodate pilgrims
Special flights will now operate
from Pakistan to Iraq, with plans to open a new consulate in Karachi to further
assist pilgrims. Both nations will also take action against agents charging
excessive fees, ensuring fair treatment for travelers.
The meeting also agreed to sign a
visa waiver agreement for diplomatic and official passports and has requested a
visa fee waiver for ordinary pilgrims.
Interior Minister Naqvi expressed
gratitude to the Iraqi counterparts for their cooperation, while Ambassador
Lafta extended an invitation to visit Iraq. In response, Naqvi secured approval
from Federal Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif for Iraqi airlines to operate
special flights, and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will soon announce
its own flight schedule.
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seeking expanded aviation rights with Iraq
These measures mark a significant
improvement in travel arrangements, promising a smoother and more accessible
journey for Pakistani pilgrims to Iraq. Prior to this, discussions had focused
on making the pilgrimage more affordable and accessible, including addressing
concerns about high fees charged by travel agents. Additionally, Pakistan and
Iraq are working on an agreement to simplify work permit processes for
Pakistani workers in Iraq.
Source: Geo TV