ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Iraq have reached anagreement to facilitate the pilgrimage of Pakistani Muslims to Iraq for Arbaeen, a significant religious observance.
The accord, finalised in a high-level meeting on Wednesday, includes a waiver of visa fees, special flights, and an increased quota for Pakistani pilgrims.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Iraqi Ambassador Hamid Abbas Lafta led the discussions, which culminated in several key decisions aimed at easing travel restrictions for Arbaeen, which commemorates the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (A.S) on the 10th of Muharram, also known as Chehlum.
Under the new agreement, Pakistani pilgrims will no longer need to surrender their passports upon arrival in Iraq. Instead, visas will be issued directly by the Iraqi Embassy in Pakistan, bypassing the need for travel agents. This move is expected to streamline the process and reduce costs for pilgrims.
Moreover, Iraq has agreed to increase the quota of Pakistani pilgrims and operate special flights to accommodate the surge in travel. The Federal Aviation Minister, Khawaja Asif, has approved Iraqi airlines to run these flights, with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) also preparing to announce its schedule.
In addition to these measures, a new Iraqi consulate will be established in Karachi, and both nations will collaborate to crack down on travel agents who charge excessive fees. The agreement also includes a visa waiver for diplomatic and official passports, with discussions ongoing regarding a waiver for ordinary pilgrims.
Minister Naqvi expressed gratitude for the Iraqi cooperation and accepted an invitation from Ambassador Lafta to visit Iraq. This agreement marks a significant improvement in the facilitation of pilgrimages, aiming to ensure a smoother and more accessible journey for Pakistani devotees.
Previously, discussions between the two countries had focused on making pilgrimages more affordable and accessible. Concerns over travel agents charging high fees were addressed, with assurances of legal action against those exploiting pilgrims.
Additionally, Pakistan and Iraq are negotiating a deal to ease work permit requirements for Pakistani workers in Iraq, further strengthening bilateral ties.
