KARACHI, April 16, 2025 – The reopening of the Iraqi Consulate in Karachi after a 23-year hiatus marks a significant step toward enhancing economic, cultural, and diplomatic relations between Iraq and Pakistan.
Iraqi Consul General Maher Mjhid Jejan, during his visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), emphasized that the consulate is fully committed to serving as a bridge between the business communities of Iraq and Pakistan, with a sharp focus on boosting bilateral trade, investment, and tourism.
Addressing the gathering at KCCI, which included Senior Vice President Zia ul Arfeen, Vice President Faisal Khalil Ahmed, Former President Majyd Aziz, and KCCI committee members, Jejan assured that the consulate would maintain an open-door policy to assist businesses interested in the Iraqi market. He underlined the Consulate’s availability around the clock and expressed readiness to meet frequently with the business community, even proposing the formation of a joint working group to explore mutual trade and investment opportunities.
The Consul General highlighted that Iraq is undergoing rapid development and offers vast potential for foreign investment. He urged Pakistani entrepreneurs to visit Iraq and experience its peaceful and stable environment firsthand. Jejan dismissed outdated concerns about security, assuring that free movement is now possible across the country.
He also announced the launch of business attestation services at the Iraqi Consulate in Karachi and provided updates on visa facilitation. While visa issuance from the Karachi consulate will begin soon, e-visa services and fast-tracked processing via the Iraqi Embassy in Islamabad are already in place to ease travel for Pakistani businesspeople.
Zia ul Arfeen noted that Pakistan’s exports to Iraq were $54.29 million in FY24, while imports stood at $145.46 million—well below potential. He suggested Iraq consider investments in Pakistan’s Special Economic Zones under CPEC and proposed energy cooperation through a Basra-Gwadar oil pipeline.
With proposals such as a sea-link between Basra and Karachi, updated investment laws in Iraq, and expanded visa services, both nations are poised to deepen cooperation. The reopening of the Iraqi Consulate signals a renewed chapter in Iraq–Pakistan relations, paving the way for increased bilateral engagement and regional connectivity.