Pakistan, S Arabia to expand flight operations

MoU signed during Saudi Hajj minister’s visit

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have signed an Air Services Agreement (ASA) with the aim of increasing the number of flights between the two nations.

Saudi Hajj Minister Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, who also chairs the administrative board of the two Holy Mosques, is leading a substantial delegation on a four-day visit to Pakistan.

During a joint news conference in the capital city, Al-Rabiah highlighted the importance of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) that was signed.

He noted that this agreement would result in a higher number of flights connecting Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, ultimately leading to reduced travel costs for passengers.

The delegation's discussions with Pakistan's Minister of Religious Affairs focused on improving facilities and addressing challenges to provide optimal experiences for Pakistani visitors.

Al-Rabiah mentioned that Saudi Arabia expects a greater number of Pakistani visitors this year, building upon the substantial inflow from the previous year.

Al-Rabiah also shared Saudi Arabia's efforts to enhance the pilgrimage experience, citing the opening of eight historical sites in Madinah and plans to open approximately 100 more sites in Makkah and Madinah soon.

He emphasized that the Saudi government seeks to enhance pilgrim services by encouraging competition among companies, thereby improving services and reducing costs.

As part of these initiatives, the Nasuk exhibition, a platform that streamlines the Hajj or Umrah itinerary planning process, is set to be inaugurated in Karachi. This platform enables travelers to organize their entire visit, from obtaining eVisas to booking accommodations and flights.

Caretaker Minister Aneeq expressed gratitude for the restoration of Pakistan's pre-pandemic Hajj quota and requested an increase in the quota to accommodate Pakistan's increased population as per the recent census. He also urged the expansion of the Makkah Route Initiative in Pakistan, which streamlines Hajj-related procedures for departure.

Additionally, Pakistan has requested a fingerprinting exemption for pilgrims above the age of 65 due to difficulties in fingerprint recognition, especially for senior citizens.

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar acknowledged Saudi Arabia's exceptional arrangements for Hujjaj from around the world during the Hajj season, particularly for Pakistani pilgrims.

He expressed hope that Pakistani Hajj and Umrah pilgrims would continue to receive special treatment from Saudi authorities.

During a meeting between Prime Minister Kakar and Saudi Minister of Hajj & Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, the prime minister expressed these sentiments.

The visit has marked further cooperation and collaboration between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in facilitating pilgrimage and strengthening bilateral ties.

This partnership highlights the mutual commitment to enhancing the experience of pilgrims and fostering amicable relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

The Air Services Agreement and discussions surrounding various initiatives underscore the ongoing efforts to streamline procedures and ensure the well-being of the pilgrims.