In a significant development, Pakistan and Iraq have agreed to ease travel restrictions and facilitate pilgrims traveling to Iraq for Arbaeen, a religious observance that occurs 40 days after the death of Imam Hussain (RA). The landmark decisions were reached during a high-level meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Iraqi Ambassador Hamid Abbas Lafta.
Pakistani pilgrims will no longer need to surrender their passports upon arrival in Iraq, and the Iraqi Embassy will issue visas directly to pilgrims, bypassing travel agents. The quota for Pakistani pilgrims has also been increased, and special flights will operate from Pakistan to facilitate travel. A new consulate will be opened in Karachi to further streamline the process.
These measures aim to provide a hassle-free experience for pilgrims and address concerns about travel agents charging excessive fees. The meeting also decided to sign a visa waiver agreement on diplomatic and official passports and requested a visa fee waiver for ordinary pilgrims.
The decisions mark a significant improvement in travel arrangements for Pakistani pilgrims and demonstrate the commitment of both countries to facilitating religious pilgrimages. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi thanked the Iraqi counterparts for their cooperation, while Ambassador Lafta extended an invitation to visit Iraq.
In a swift follow-up, Naqvi secured approval from Federal Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif to allow Iraqi airlines to operate special flights, with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) also set to announce its schedule soon.
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