Islamabad: Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates have reached an agreement to implement a "Pre-Immigration Clearance" system, marking a significant step forward in the bilateral relations between the two nations. The agreement was finalized during a meeting between Pakistan's Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi and a UAE delegation led by Director General Customs and Port Security, Ahmed bin Lahij Al Falasi, in Islamabad.

According to Radio Pakistan, the new system will initially be launched as a pilot project in Karachi. The meeting featured in-depth discussions on enhancing Pakistan-UAE relations, mutual cooperation, and streamlining immigration processes for travelers between the two countries. Minister Mohsin Naqvi highlighted that under the new system, immigration and related clearance processes will occur in Pakistan, allowing passengers to bypass lengthy immigration procedures upon arrival in the UAE. They will be treated as domestic travelers, facilitating a quicker exit from the airport.

The initiative aims to simplify travel, save time, and improve the passenger experience. The UAE delegation acknowledged the benefits of this move for citizens of both countries and expressed their readiness to cooperate further. The meeting concluded with a decision to maintain coordination among relevant authorities to finalize the administrative and technical aspects of the pilot project. Upon successful implementation, the system is expected to expand to additional cities.

The meeting was also attended by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and Federal Secretary Interior Khurram Agha.