In a dramatic turn of events, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar convened an emergency meeting on Monday, heralding a significant U-turn in the government’s stance on passport issuance for Pakistani nationals seeking asylum abroad. The high-level gathering, attended by esteemed officials from the foreign and interior ministries, as well as the Director General of Immigration and Passports, witnessed a unanimous decision to rescind the contentious policy introduced on June 5, 2024.
The circular, which had sparked widespread concern among overseas Pakistanis, has been officially withdrawn, effective immediately. This bold move marks a triumph for the welfare of Pakistani nationals seeking refuge abroad, ensuring their rights and interests are safeguarded.
As the meeting delved into the intricacies of passport issuance, the spotlight shone on the pressing issue of delays plaguing Pakistanis living abroad. The interior secretary and Director General of IMPASS presented a comprehensive briefing, outlining the concerted efforts to streamline the process and eliminate bottlenecks.
With a sense of urgency, the Ministry of Interior and IMPASS have pledged to revamp infrastructure and equipment within a 45-day timeframe, tackling the backlog of passport applications with unwavering dedication. This decisive action promises to bring solace to countless Pakistanis navigating the complexities of asylum, their voices heard and valued by the government.
