Pak-Iran border to remain open 24/7 for pilgrims

Pakistan and Iran have agreed to keep their shared border open round-the-clock for pilgrims during “Arbaeen” and “Muharramul Haram”.

This decision was made in a meeting between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and his Iranian counterpart Iskandar Momeni.

During the meeting, both sides agreed to improve facilities and coordination for pilgrims. A hotline will be set up to quickly resolve any issues faced by pilgrims.

They also decided to hold a trilateral conference of interior ministries from Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq in Mashhad before Arbaeen to further plan support for Pakistani pilgrims.

It was also agreed to increase flights for pilgrims and prepare a full plan to ensure security and ease of travel. Sea routes for transporting pilgrims to Iran and Iraq were also discussed.

The Iranian minister announced that 5,000 Pakistani pilgrims would be provided free accommodation and meals in Mashhad, and special transport would be arranged from the Iran border to Iraq.

Besides pilgrimage matters, the two countries talked about strengthening relations and boosting cooperation in different areas. They discussed working together to stop illegal immigration, human trafficking, and drug smuggling.

Both ministers agreed to improve border security coordination. The Iranian minister said Iran values its strong relationship with Pakistan and considers Pakistan’s security very important. He also said serving pilgrims is their religious responsibility.

They also discussed the issue of Iranian fishermen accidentally entering Pakistani waters. At Iran’s request, Minister Mohsin Naqvi promised full cooperation for their release.

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