In a significant development, Iran has granted permission for Pakistani pilgrims to travel to Iran by road for Ziyarat (pilgrimage) via buses and cars this year. The decision was made during a meeting between a delegation led by Iran’s Consul General Hassan Nourian and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah. The move aims to foster bilateral tourism and strengthen cooperation in the health and transport sectors between the two countries.
The Sindh Chief Minister and the Iranian Consulate General have reached an agreement to facilitate the travel of pilgrims from Sindh to Iran using buses and private vehicles. The journey will commence from Karachi and proceed to Chabahar through the Chabahar bypass road, as per the statement issued by the Chief Minister’s spokesperson.
Recognizing the potential of increased bilateral tourism, Chief Minister Shah emphasized the importance of this new travel route. He directed the Transport Department to devise a comprehensive plan for the road, enabling a smooth and convenient pilgrimage experience for the travelers. Furthermore, he expressed his intention to request the Foreign Minister to initiate discussions regarding the opening of the Karachi to Chabahar route.
Iran’s Consul General, Hassan Nourian, highlighted the need for approximately 3,000 buses to transport the pilgrims. In response, Chief Minister Shah instructed the transport department to collaborate with the private sector to arrange the required number of buses.
During the meeting, both Shah and Nourian emphasized the significance of collaboration in the health and transport sectors. In particular, they discussed the possibility of joint efforts in training and specialization for experts in areas such as thalassemia, heart disease, and other prevalent medical conditions. By capitalizing on their respective strengths, both countries aim to enhance their healthcare systems and contribute to the overall welfare of their citizens.