Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq have agreed to establish a joint working group to improve the pilgrimage experience for visitors traveling between the three nations.
The announcement came following a trilateral conference of Interior Ministers in Tehran on Monday.
Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, expressed gratitude to his Iranian counterpart, Eskandar Momeni, for hosting the conference, emphasizing the importance of facilitating smooth travel for pilgrims visiting Iran and Iraq.
Minister Naqvi also extended congratulations to Iran on its recent military victory, reiterating Pakistan’s unwavering support and condemnation of the attacks. He highlighted the strong brotherly bond between Pakistan and Iran, emphasizing the active role played by Pakistan’s Prime Minister and high-ranking officials during the conflict.
The conference addressed key issues surrounding pilgrimage travel, particularly the upcoming Arbaeen pilgrimage to Iraq. Minister Naqvi commended the Iraqi Interior Ministry for its efforts in managing the millions of pilgrims, noting the significant logistical challenge involved.
He announced a significant policy change for Pakistani pilgrims traveling to Iraq: starting January 1, 2026, individual travel to Iraq will be suspended, with all pilgrimages requiring participation through registered group organizers.
This new system, supported by both Iran and Iraq, aims to curb illegal travel and overstays. Registration for group organizers is already underway, with organizers assuming responsibility for the return of all pilgrims under their care.
Exceptions will be made for individuals granted special visas by the embassy.
The trilateral conference was attended by high-ranking officials from all three countries, including Iran’s Deputy Interior Minister Ali Akbar Pour-Jamshidian, Senior Advisor to the Iranian Interior Minister Nader Yar Ahmadi, Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Amiri Moghadam, Pakistani Ambassador to Iran Mohammad Mudassar Tipu, and Pakistan’s Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha.
The new joint working group will focus on implementing the agreed-upon measures to ensure a safe and efficient pilgrimage experience for all.
