ISLAMABAD: Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control Mohsin Naqvi held a meeting with Iraq’s Interior Minister General Abdulamir Al-Shammari in Baghdad and discussed pilgrim services, security collaboration, and counter-terrorism efforts.
According to a statement issued here, during the meeting, Naqvi said no Pakistani pilgrim will be allowed to stay in Iraq beyond the permitted duration, adding both countries’ will maintain continuous coordination.
The Iraqi Interior minister praised Pakistan’s recent efforts to organize and monitor pilgrim groups, noting that effective mechanisms were implemented for the first time under Naqvi’s leadership.
He assured that all pilgrims listed by Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior will be allowed entry into Iraq.
Both the sides agreed to establish a permanent joint mechanism for security cooperation, counter-terrorism, human trafficking prevention, and information sharing.
Naqvi thanked the Iraqi government and people for their traditional hospitality, reiterating that pilgrim safety, dignity, and facilitation remain Pakistan’s top priority.
The Iraqi Interior Minister also indicated he plans to visit Pakistan soon to finalize a joint roadmap for improved pilgrim services and security, further strengthening bilateral relations.
