In a key development, Pakistan and Iran have agreed to keep their border open 24/7 during the holy months of Muharram and Arbaeen to make travel easier for religious pilgrims. The decision was made during a meeting between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni in Tehran.
According to officials, the move aims to help thousands of Pakistani pilgrims visiting Iran during these sacred occasions. As part of the agreement, the Iranian government will provide accommodation and meals in Mashhad for 5,000 Pakistani pilgrims.
To improve coordination and solve issues quickly, both countries will set up a direct hotline. A special three-nation meeting involving Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq will also be held in Mashhad before Arbaeen to discuss better travel arrangements and pilgrim support.
The two sides also agreed to increase the number of flights for pilgrims and explore the option of sending pilgrims by sea. Along with these plans, both countries will work together to stop illegal immigration, human trafficking, and drug smuggling.
Border security and better cooperation between Pakistan and Iran were also discussed in the meeting. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi thanked the Iranian authorities for their continued support of Pakistani pilgrims. He also assured full cooperation from Pakistan regarding the release of Iranian fishermen who accidentally entered Pakistani waters.
This agreement is expected to improve travel arrangements and strengthen ties between the two neighboring countries during important religious events.
