ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced on Monday that Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq have agreed to establish a joint working group aimed at streamlining travel arrangements for pilgrims visiting the two neighbouring countries.
Speaking at a trilateral conference of interior ministers in Tehran, Naqvi said that starting January 1, 2026, Pakistani pilgrims would only be allowed to travel to Iraq through officially registered group organisers. “The registration process for Zaireen Group Organisers has already started. From 2026 onwards, only those travelling under these registered organisers will be permitted, while individuals will require special visas issued by the embassy to travel independently,” he explained.
He emphasised that this new system would ensure better management of pilgrim movements, curb illegal travel, and address the issue of overstaying. “The organisers will be fully responsible for the safe return of pilgrims,” he added.
Naqvi thanked Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni for hosting the conference on Pakistan’s request, noting the urgent need for coordinated policies to resolve the problems faced by pilgrims visiting Iran and Iraq. “Pilgrims travelling to Iraq and Iran hold immense importance for us. This trilateral forum will pave the way for enhanced facilities and better support systems,” he remarked.
He also praised the Iraqi and Iranian governments for efficiently managing the large influx of pilgrims. “Handling millions of pilgrims is not an easy task, and both countries’ interior ministers are fulfilling this responsibility commendably,” he said.
In his address, Naqvi lauded Iran’s leadership during recent regional tensions, saying, “Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei demonstrated courage and resolve. We congratulate him and the Iranian people on this victory.”
Reaffirming Pakistan’s support for Iran during its recent conflict with Israel, he said, “Pakistan strongly condemned the attack on Iran and fully supported its right to self-defence. Both the people and government of Pakistan stand firmly with Iran.”
The conference was also attended by Iran’s Deputy Interior Minister Ali Akbar Pour-Jamshidian, senior Iraqi and Iranian officials, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Mohammad Mudassar Tipu, and Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha.
