A memorandum of understanding (MoU) will be signed between the two governments to ease the process. This move aims to increase legal immigration and reduce illegal entry into Iraq. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi assured cooperation in resolving the issue of illegal Pakistani residents in Iraq.
The meeting also focused on providing facilities to pilgrims, including free entry visas and increasing the quota for Pakistani pilgrims. The interior minister requested the Iraqi government to waive the passport submission requirement for Pakistani pilgrims, as it creates problems for them on their return. The Iraqi ambassador agreed to cooperate and provided a list of travel agents who charged extra fees to pilgrims. Strict action will be taken against these agents within a week.
The two sides also agreed to finalize an agreement on visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders soon. This move will strengthen bilateral relations and facilitate travel between the two countries. The Pakistani government is committed to providing maximum facilities to its citizens abroad and resolving issues related to immigration and pilgrimage. The agreement will benefit hundreds of thousands of Pakistani pilgrims who visit Iraq every year, especially during the months of Muharram and Safar.
