Islamabad: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced new measures aimed at curbing beggary and illegal immigration during a visit to the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports. The measures include stringent requirements for obtaining passports, which are expected to act as a deterrent against such activities.
Minister Naqvi, accompanied by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, Secretary Interior Muhammad Khurram Agha, and other senior officials, emphasized the need for prompt action in implementing these new requirements. He instructed that all legal formalities be prioritized to ensure compliance.
Minister Talal Chaudhry expressed that this initiative will positively influence the international community’s perception of the country’s immigration policies. The team also discussed the importance of enforcing the directive to block the passports of deported individuals, underscoring a commitment to strong immigration control.
During his visit, Minister Naqvi inspected six newly installed MRP and two E-passport machines. He noted that the new equipment, installed with assistance from a visiting German team, would significantly enhance the passport office’s printing capacity, expediting passport issuance.
DG Passport Mustafa Jamal Qazi briefed the minister on upcoming plans, which include the launch of a mobile app designed to improve convenience for citizens seeking passport services.