Pakistan offers free visas to citizens of this country

In a move to further solidify its alliance with China, Pakistan has announced plans to offer free visas to Chinese citizens starting August 14.

The decision, made public by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday, underscores Islamabad’s commitment to deepening its relationship with Beijing.

During a meeting with a high-level Chinese delegation led by Minister Wang Fukang, Sharif expressed his desire to model Pakistan’s economy after China’s, citing the success of their recent collaborations.

He welcomed the delegation, emphasizing the eternal friendship between the two nations, which he described as “higher than the Himalayas and deeper than the oceans.”

The premier highlighted the importance of industrial cooperation, hoping to shift it to Pakistan and create a win-win situation through joint ventures.

Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif  had approved visa-free entry of businessmen from Gulf countries to promote foreign investment, business activities, and tourism in the country.

In a statement, he said online visas will be issued within 24 hours to businessmen, investors and tourists from 126 countries.

He said businessmen and tourists from these 126 countries will be exempted from visa fees.

He added that a sub-category to visa on arrival facility has been approved for Sikh Yatrees, holding a passport from a third country to promote religious tourism.