POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Pakistan, Iran Agree to Keep Border Open 24/7 for Arbaeen and Muharram Pilgrims

Pakistan and Iran to keep border open round-the-clock for Arbaeen & Muharram pilgrims. Hotline to ease pilgrim issues & trilateral conference planned with Iraq for better coordination.
2025-05-28
Pakistan, Iran Agree to Keep Border Open 24/7 for Arbaeen and Muharram Pilgrims

Pakistan and Iran have agreed to keep their shared border open 24 hours a day during the important observances of Arbaeen and Muharram. This decision was reached during a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni.

The meeting, held in Tehran, also resulted in plans to establish a dedicated hotline to promptly address any issues faced by pilgrims crossing the border. Additionally, a trilateral conference involving the Interior Ministries of Pakistan, Iran, and Iraq is scheduled to take place in Mashhad ahead of Arbaeen to ensure smooth coordination and security for Pakistani pilgrims traveling to Iraq.

Iran has committed to providing accommodation and food facilities for 5,000 Pakistani pilgrims in Mashhad, along with special arrangements for those traveling from the border to Iraq. The discussions also highlighted the promotion of Pak-Iran bilateral relations and mutual cooperation across various sectors.

Minister Momeni emphasized the strong ties between the two countries and underscored that Pakistan’s security remains a priority for Iran. Minister Naqvi expressed gratitude for the Iranian government’s support in facilitating the pilgrims and welcomed the establishment of the hotline as a step to resolve any problems swiftly.

This agreement marks a significant effort by both countries to enhance the safety, convenience, and spiritual experience of pilgrims during these sacred periods.