Interior Minister Naqvi meets Turkish Ambassador, announces free online visas for Turks

ISLAMABAD:

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Friday met Turkish Ambassador Dr Mehmet Pacaci at the Interior Ministry where they discussed in detail Pakistan-Turkey bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest.

During the meeting, the two sides agreed to enhance cooperation in the fields of security, police and civilian armed forces. It was also decided that Pakistani police officers would be sent to Turkey for training under an exchange programme aimed at strengthening ties between the law enforcement agencies of the two countries.

Naqvi announced that from August 14, Turkish citizens will be able to obtain online visas for Pakistan free of charge. He stressed that this initiative will facilitate travel for Turkish nationals and further strengthen ties between the two countries.

The minister also revealed his intention to visit Turkey next October at the invitation of the Turkish government. He said that during his visit, he will propose productive measures to strengthen mutual cooperation between the two countries.

The minister said that Pakistanis consider Turkey as their second homeland. “The two countries have long-standing religious, cultural and commercial ties and we are keen to further strengthen these relations,” he added.

The release of Pakistani prisoners in Turkey was another key issue discussed during the meeting, with both sides agreeing to finalise an agreement on the issue soon.

Turkish Ambassador Dr. Mehmet Pacaci reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to its brotherly relations with Pakistan, stressing that Turkey attaches great importance to continuing and expanding cooperation in various fields.

Federal Interior Secretary Khurram Ali Agha and Joint Interior Secretary Riffat Mukhtar Raja were also present in the meeting.