Pakistan, UAE to sign formal agreement to launch ‘Pre-Immigration Clearance’ system

(Radio Pakistan)Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates have agreed to sign a formal agreement to launch "Pre-Immigration Clearance" system.

It was decided during a meeting between Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi and a delegation from the United Arab Emirates led by Director General Customs and Port Security, Ahmed bin Lahij Al Falasi, which called on the Minister in Islamabad today.

The new system will initially be launched as a pilot project in Karachi.

During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on Pakistan-UAE relations, mutual cooperation and simplifying immigration processes for travellers.

Speaking on the occasion, Mohsin Naqvi said under the Pre-Immigration Clearance system, immigration and relevant clearance will take place in Pakistan itself.

He said after its implementation, passengers arriving in the UAE will not be required to undergo lengthy immigration procedures and they will be able to exit the airport directly as domestic passengers.

The Interior Minister further said the initiative will make travel easier, save time, and enhance the overall passenger experience.

The UAE delegation termed the move beneficial for the people of both countries and expressed readiness for cooperation.

It was decided in the meeting that the relevant authorities would continue coordination to finalize the administrative and technical framework of the pilot project, and upon successful implementation, the new system would gradually be expanded to more cities.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and Federal Secretary Interior Khurram Agha were also present in the meeting.