The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development is set to secure work permits for Pakistani citizens in Iraq. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) will soon be signed between the ministry and the Iraqi Ministry of Labour, as discussed in a meeting attended by Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Ambassador Hamid Abbas Lafta, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
“The MoU will simplify the process for Pakistanis to obtain work permits in Iraq, increase legal immigration, and reduce illegal entry,” said Mr. Salik. The interior minister assured the Iraqi ambassador of his full cooperation in addressing the issue of illegal Pakistani residents in Iraq.
The MoU aims to enhance legal immigration, said the minister.
The meeting also addressed improving facilities for Pakistani pilgrims, including free entry visas and increasing the pilgrimage quota. Mr. Naqvi promised action against travel agents charging extra fees and requested the Iraqi government to double the Pakistani pilgrims’ quota and waive passport submission requirements for entry.
The Iraqi ambassador agreed to cooperate fully to facilitate Pakistani pilgrims and provided a list of travel agents who overcharged pilgrims. The interior minister pledged strict action against these agents within a week.
Both sides also agreed to finalize an agreement on visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders soon.
