ISLAMABAD:
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni in Tehran on Wednesday, where both sides reached key agreements aimed at easing pilgrimage and enhancing border cooperation.
The ministers decided that the Pakistan-Iran border will remain open 24 hours daily throughout Muharram and Arbaeen to facilitate the movement of religious pilgrims. Additionally, the Iranian government will provide accommodation and meals for 5,000 Pakistani pilgrims in Mashhad.
To expedite the resolution of any issues, a dedicated hotline will be established between the two countries. Furthermore, a special trilateral meeting involving Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq is planned to be held in Mashhad ahead of Arbaeen to coordinate better arrangements for pilgrims.
Both ministers agreed to increase the number of flights for pilgrims and discussed the possibility of sea travel for pilgrims as well.
The discussions also covered joint efforts to combat illegal immigration, human trafficking, and drug smuggling.
Enhancing border security and cooperation was another important topic during the meeting.
Mohsin Naqvi expressed gratitude to the Iranian government for its support to Pakistani pilgrims and pledged full cooperation on the release of Iranian fishermen who inadvertently entered Pakistani waters.
Senior officials from both nations attended the meeting.
