September 14, 2020
In another positive move between Islamabad and Kabul, Pakistan appointed Mansoor Ahmad Khan, as its new Ambassador to Afghanistan, who is looking forward to engage Kabul on constructive partnerships in diverse fields. The incoming Ambassador is particularly keen on furthering cooperation in the domains of education, science and technology, and youth affairs.
Pakistan to announce a relaxed-visa policy for Afghan nationals particularly students, businessmen, investors, and patients soon, stated the Ambassador. He said the new policy is aimed at facilitating a large number of people in Afghanistan who wanted to visit the country for business, study, and medical treatment.
“The government of Pakistan is committed to ensure more facilities to Afghan nationals. The main focus is on easing the visa system and facilitating businessmen,” he added.
The recent statement of Pakistan’s newly appointed ambassador to Kabul on easing the visa system augers wells for the days ahead. He held meetings with President Arif Alvi, Prime Minister Imran Khan, and Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood before leaving for Afghanistan. The envoy previously served at the Afghan Desk of Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry. His appointment came at a time when intra-Afghan dialogues were about to kick-starting.
The proposals for new visa policy for Afghanistan, pending Federal Government’s approval include proposal to end monthly visa process for Afghans, holding long term visas. Both Pakistan and Afghanistan do not charge visa fee under a bilateral agreement. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Pakistan used to issue 2,000 visas to Afghan nationals on daily basis with almost zero percent rejection rate.
The current proposals for visa reform policy are expected to bring further ease for both applying for short- and long-term visas in addition to the multiple visas that would be issued for long term to the Afghan students, businessmen, investors etc. Those seeking medical treatment in Pakistan, would be issued medical visa on arrival at Torkham border crossing. It is hoped that with the efforts of the new Pakistani Diplomat and reform in visa policy, the relationship between the two neighbors would be strengthened further.
The author Tooba Altaf is an International Relations’ graduate, while working as a Researcher at Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), Islamabad.
© Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) and Afghan Studies Center (ASC), Islamabad.
