Brussels 12 December 2025(Kamran Raja): Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control Mohsin Naqvi and Iraqi Interior Minister General Abdul Ameer Al-Shammari held an important meeting, during which detailed discussions were held on Pakistan–Iraq bilateral relations and facilitation of pilgrims. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation between their Interior Ministries on effective and sustainable foundations. The Iraqi Interior Minister appreciated Pakistan’s steps to formally organize and regulate pilgrim groups, saying that effective measures taken during Minister Naqvi’s tenure were commendable. He reiterated that all pilgrims included in the list provided by Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior will be allowed to enter Iraq.
Mohsin Naqvi stated that pilgrims will not be allowed to overstay beyond their permitted duration and that the relevant institutions of both countries will remain in close coordination. Both ministers agreed to further strengthen security cooperation, counter-terrorism efforts, exchange of information, and joint mechanisms to curb human smuggling. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi thanked the Iraqi Government and people for their cooperation and hospitality towards Pakistani pilgrims, emphasizing that their safety, dignity, and facilitation is Pakistan’s top priority. The Iraqi Interior Minister expressed his intention to visit Pakistan soon to finalize the future joint plan aimed at strengthening pilgrim facilitation, security cooperation, and bilateral ties.