ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced on Sunday that Saudi citizens can now travel to Pakistan without requiring a visa, extending a warm invitation for them to visit the country at any time.
The announcement came during a meeting with the Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Maliki, held at the Saudi Embassy in Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave. The two officials discussed a range of issues, focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation in key sectors including anti-narcotics operations and counter-human trafficking efforts.
Ambassador Al-Maliki welcomed Minister Naqvi and reiterated the strength of Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations.
“Our nations share deep-rooted, historic ties, and we are committed to strengthening them further,” he said.
Minister Naqvi expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s continued support in Pakistan’s development efforts and appreciated the Kingdom’s participation in the recent Pak-GCC Anti-Narcotics Conference.
He also thanked the Saudi government for its critical assistance in securing the release and safe return of five Pakistani nationals who had been detained abroad.
“Saudi Arabia’s support was instrumental in ensuring the safe repatriation of the innocent family,” Naqvi noted.
Crackdown on Human Trafficking and Begging Mafias
The interior minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to work closely with Saudi authorities in combating transnational crimes, particularly drug trafficking and human smuggling. He also highlighted new measures being implemented to dismantle organized begging rings exploiting legal migration channels.
“The crackdown against the beggar mafia is underway,” he said. “We are introducing stricter passport issuance protocols to prevent misuse and illegal migration.”
Strengthening Strategic and People-to-People Ties
The meeting underscored the upward momentum in Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations, with both nations committed to expanding cooperation across economic, social, and security dimensions.
Earlier this week, the Saudi Embassy shared details of the meeting on its official social media platforms, describing the exchange as cordial, constructive, and reflective of growing bilateral goodwill.
