Iranian pilgrims granted month-long visa exemption

KABUL (Pajhwok): Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi says a one month visa exemption has been granted to Iranian pilgrims returning home via Afghanistan after performing Hajj.

He said that relevant entities in western Herat province have been instructed to take all necessary measures to ensure the pilgrims’ safe and secure transfer to their homeland.

Muttaqi made these remarks at a meeting with Iranian Ambassador to Kabul Alireza Bigdeli, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said.

A statement from the ministry said the two sides discussed the evolving regional situation and the transit of Iranian pilgrims through Afghanistan.

Muttaqi condemned Israel’s recent attacks on Iran, calling it a clear violation of international law. He reaffirmed that Afghans stand in solidarity with the Iranian people and said the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) was fully prepared to facilitate the return of Iranian pilgrims via Afghan territory.

He further noted that, in accordance with a decision by the Office of the Prime Minister, Iranian pilgrims travelling through Afghanistan from Saudi Arabia had been granted a one-month visa waiver.

In addition, concerned departments in Herat had been directed to make all necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth and safe passage for the pilgrims.

For his part, Ambassador Bigdeli shared his government’s stance on the recent developments and expressed appreciation to the Islamic Emirate for facilitating the pilgrims’ transit — describing it as a laudable step towards strengthening bilateral relations.

He hoped that the relevant institutions of both countries would successfully manage and complete the process of transferring Iranian pilgrims.

kk/ma