Saudi citizens can visit Pakistan without visa: Mohsin Naqvi
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday announced that Saudi citizens can now enter Pakistan without restrictions, as part of measures aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries.
The announcement followed a meeting between Mohsin Naqvi and Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmad Al-Malkiy at the Diplomatic Enclave in Islamabad. The two officials held detailed discussions covering diplomatic relations, travel policies, and law enforcement cooperation.
Mohsin Naqvi expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia's consistent support for Pakistan, particularly acknowledging the kingdom's participation in the recent anti-narcotics conference co-hosted by Pakistan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
During the meeting, Naqvi shared updates on recent reforms related to passport issuance and national documentation standards. He stated that the new protocols aim to improve document security and prevent misuse.
The interior minister also briefed the ambassador on the government's efforts to address street-level crime, including a crackdown on professional begging networks across the country.
Naqvi commended Saudi authorities for their cooperation in securing the release of five Pakistani nationals who had been imprisoned in a drug smuggling case later found to be false. He described the release as a result of strong bilateral coordination and support.
Ambassador Al-Malkiy reiterated Saudi Arabia's commitment to enhancing cooperation with Pakistan across multiple sectors. He emphasised the longstanding nature of Saudi-Pakistani relations and the kingdom's intent to further deepen strategic and economic ties.
The meeting concluded with both sides pledging continued collaboration and efforts to strengthen mutual interests.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Express Tribune
37 minutes ago
- Express Tribune
Kidney racket busted; victim rescued
Airport Police on Saturday arrested four people, who were allegedly involved in running an illegal human kidney transplant racket, during a raid at a rented residence situated in a private housing society, also rescuing a patient, who was found restrained on a stretcher. Police sources said that the gang had been targeting vulnerable individuals by luring them with false promises of employment, only to later remove their kidneys for unlawful sale. A wider operation is now underway to trace and arrest other members and facilitators of the network. A spokesperson for Rawalpindi Police said that the raid followed a call to the emergency helpline (15), during which a caller reported screams and cries emanating from a neighbouring house. Police responded immediately and, upon arrival, discovered a man tied to a stretcher, who was subsequently freed. Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim had been drugged into a semi-conscious state and subjected to a series of medical tests, believed to be preparatory steps for the illegal removal and sale of his kidney. The swift and timely intervention of the police prevented what could have been a life-threatening act of organ harvesting. The suspects arrested at the scene were identified as Akif Aftab, Naseem Butt, Rakesh Masih, and Shawn Masih. Police also recovered surgical instruments and medical equipment used in the unlawful procedures. During questioning, the suspects admitted to trafficking kidneys to both Pakistani and foreign clients. The rescued victim informed the authorities that he had been lured under the pretext of a job opportunity. Police have affirmed that operations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the remaining members of the network. Ensuring the safety and protection of citizens' lives and property remains the foremost priority of the Rawalpindi Police, who have pledged to pursue all involved to the fullest extent of the law, the spokesman maintained. In March 2023, Rawalpindi police had unearthed a gang allegedly involved in depriving people of their kidneys and transplanting them to foreigners. Police and the Punjab Human Organ Transplant Authority (PHOTA) conducted a surprise raid at a private hospital in Morgah, arresting 10 people, including three doctors, and recovering Rs20 million from them.
Business Recorder
38 minutes ago
- Business Recorder
Aleema's ‘conflicting' statements reflect habitual dishonesty: Azma
LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Information and Culture, Azma Bokhari, has strongly criticized Aleema Khan for her contradictory statements regarding her nephews, Qasim and Salman. 'Just like her brother, Aleema Khan seems to have developed a habit of constant lying,' Azma Bokhari stated. She pointed out the inconsistency in Aleema's public remarks: 'One moment she says Qasim and Salman are coming to Pakistan, the next she says they're not. Sometimes, the excuse is that their mother didn't permit them, other times it's about visa issues. At one point she claims they are Pakistani citizens under NICOP, then in the same breath talks about applying for visas.' Azma Bokhari questioned, 'Has anyone even bothered to ask their parents if they are willing to let the boys come to Pakistan?' She further stated, 'If Qasim and Salman genuinely wish to meet their father, they are welcome. No one will stop them. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
38 minutes ago
- Business Recorder
Gohar Ejaz praises trade deal with US
ISLAMABAD: Economic Policy and Business Development (EPBD) Chairman Gohar Ejaz termed the trade deal with the United States as a great success, while saying that it would create a competitive environment for Pakistani products. Ejaz in a message on X stated that the US has reduced the tariff on Pakistan from the initially proposed 29 per cent to 19 per cent. This deal is a great opportunity for the country, as Pakistan has been given a 10 per cent tariff relief compared to the initially proposed rate and the country should take full advantage from it. EPBD terms SBP decision 'very conservative' 'The US has imposed higher tariffs on our competing countries', said Ejaz, adding that he hoped that US will further reduce tariff for Pakistan. He further said that emergency measures should be taken for an export-oriented economy and utilise the opportunity to the full. He also congratulated to team Pakistan on successful trade deal with the US. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
