Pakistan and Iraq Enhance Cooperation on Pilgrim Facilities and Security Initiatives


Islamabad: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with Commander of Iraq’s Rapid Response Unit, Lieutenant General Dr. Tahmeir Ismail, to discuss enhancing facilities for Pakistani pilgrims in Iraq and expanding bilateral security cooperation.



According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the discussions included proposals for improving the experience of Pakistani zaireen (pilgrims) in Iraq, particularly concerning the handling of their passports upon entry. Both sides explored deeper collaboration on training Iraqi police, participating in the Safe City project, and tackling challenges like illegal immigration and human smuggling.



Lieutenant General Ismail indicated plans to address the passport issue with the Director-General of Passports in Iraq, expressing optimism for a resolution. Minister Naqvi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to support Iraq in police training and urban security projects, underscoring the strategic partnership between the two nations.