ISLAMABAD: In a warm and welcoming gesture, Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has hosted a 44-member delegation of Sikh pilgrims from the US at the State Guest House, local media reported.
According to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), the delegation, led by prominent Sikh leaders Dr. Dalvir Singh Pannu, Ranjit Singh Kahlon, Surjeet Singh Hothi, and Laxman Singh, was greeted by the Minister with the traditional Punjabi phrase “Ji Aayan Nu,” marking the start of a historic trip.
During the meeting, the Interior Minister has highlighted Pakistan’s resolve to fostering easier access for Sikh pilgrims, recognizing that they have often faced visa problems in the past.
Sikh Visitors
Recalling his time as ex-chief minister of Punjab, the Minister noted efforts to enhance the conditions for Sikh visitors, saying, “During my tenure, I had worked to address challenges faced by the Sikh community.”
Mohsin Naqvi also announced that Pakistan has now introduced an online visa application system particularly designed to facilitate Sikh visitors, APP reported.
Holders of American, UK and Canadian passports can apply online and receive their visas within 30 minutes, a process Mohsin Naqvi confirmed is also free of charge, according to APP. The Minister also noted that this facility extends to Sikhs of Indian origin residing in these nations.
Providing a sight into Pakistan’s vision for fostering Sikh tourism, the Minister said, “Pakistan holds significance for the Sikh community.”
He has shared the government of Pakistan’s plans to open more Sikh heritage sites, including those beyond Hasan Abdal, Nankana Sahib, Kartarpur, and Lahore, removing the need for special permits to visit these sites.
Mohsin Naqvi has also expressed a vision of expanding Sikh tourism in Pakistan, expressing hope to raise the current annual visitor numbers from 50,000–100,000 to one million, with emphasis on attracting younger generations. He said that Pakistan now offers visa-free entry for nationals from around 124 countries.
Sikh Delegation Lauds Pakistan for Its Hospitality
Inviting global tourists to experience Pakistani sports as well, the Minister extended a special invitation to cricket fans. “Come for the Champions Trophy and Pakistan-India matches; we are keeping a special quota for this drive,” he added, confirming that the government of Pakistan is making specific arrangements for Indian visitors as well, APP reported.
The Sikh delegation has expressed gratitude to Mohsin Naqvi for his hospitality and appreciated the ease introduced by the free online visa mechanism. “You have won our hearts,” they have shared, while also expressing interest in exploring investment opportunities in Pakistan.
