Islamabad, Pakistan – In a decisive move to address concerns raised by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, has pledged swift action against the organized networks responsible for sending professional beggars to the Kingdom.
This assurance was given during a meeting with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Ahmed Al-Malki on Friday at the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Islamabad.
The meeting, which focused on matters of mutual interest, also delved into ways to further strengthen Pakistan-Saudi relations. A key topic of discussion was the growing issue of Pakistani beggars traveling to Saudi Arabia, which has reportedly caused concern among Saudi authorities. In response, Minister Naqvi assured Ambassador Al-Malki that Pakistan would take robust measures to curb this problem.
Naqvi informed the Saudi ambassador that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been directed to initiate a nationwide crackdown on the mafia involved in orchestrating the illegal travel of beggars to Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that this issue is not only tarnishing Pakistan’s image abroad but also undermining the strong and historic ties between the two nations.
“The government is committed to eliminating this mafia that is exploiting vulnerable individuals and damaging Pakistan’s reputation in the process,” Naqvi stated. He further highlighted that the people of Pakistan hold Saudi Arabia in high regard, considering the Kingdom a close and valued ally that has consistently supported Pakistan in times of need.
Saudi Arabia has recently expressed its concerns regarding the influx of beggars from Pakistan, as well as sick and unskilled individuals, urging the Pakistani government to take measures to prevent such people from entering the Kingdom. This request reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to maintain social order and ensure that those entering the country have the necessary skills to contribute positively to its economy.
In light of these developments, the Pakistani government’s crackdown will likely involve increased scrutiny at airports and other exit points, as well as targeted operations against those facilitating the illegal travel of beggars. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to safeguard Pakistan’s international reputation and strengthen diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia.
Minister Naqvi’s commitment to addressing the issue has been well-received, with expectations that the government’s actions will result in a significant reduction in the number of beggars traveling to Saudi Arabia. This move is seen as crucial in maintaining the goodwill between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, ensuring that the longstanding friendship between the two nations continues to thrive.
