Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has acknowledged that Pakistanis are facing difficulties in obtaining visas for the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Oman, but assured that the issues would be resolved soon.
“UAE visa rejection has become a significant issue. I am meeting with the interior minister of the UAE on July 9, and I am hopeful that we will find a solution to this,” said Naqvi while addressing a gathering at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Monday.
He also highlighted the government’s efforts to improve the global ranking of the green passport and expressed optimism that the country’s passport ranking would soon see a significant rise. “We are proud of our green passport, and in the future, it will be a source of even greater pride,” he stated.
Naqvi stressed the importance of Karachi’s well-being for the country’s overall progress, declaring, “If Karachi is healthy, Pakistan will be healthy.” He vowed that the federal government would do everything possible to address the city’s growing challenges, especially crime and smuggling.
He also revealed that discussions are underway with NADRA to integrate criminal records into citizens’ national ID cards. “The Safe City project in Karachi is expected to significantly reduce crime rates, following the success of similar initiatives,” he added.
The minister addressed the issue of smuggling, acknowledging that while it has not been completely eradicated, Pakistan had only six coast guard boats to patrol its 1,002-kilometre coastline. However, two additional boats have been added, and further strengthening of the coast guard is planned.
He also admitted that the government had not done sufficient planning for water supply in major cities but expressed hope for positive progress in the future.
Naqvi emphasized that peaceful labour strikes are a fundamental right, but the government’s primary goal is to boost the national economy, which is currently a top priority.
Naqvi further appreciated that the initial ten days of Muharram passed peacefully across the country, thanks to the crucial role played by all provinces. “The government maintained close coordination with provincial authorities, minimising mobile network disruptions and providing relief to citizens,” he said.
In conclusion, he assured that the government would crack down on the black-market trading of dollars, aiming to stabilise the currency and improve the economy.
