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ISLAMABAD, Nov 05 (APP): Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry on Wednesday said Pakistan’s passport has made a significant jump in the global rankings, now placed among the world’s top 100 passports according to the Henley Passport Index 2025.
Responding to questions in the National Assembly, he said this achievement was made possible through wide-ranging reforms and technological improvements introduced by the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports under the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control.
He informed that, as of August 5, 2025, Pakistan had signed visa abolition and exemption agreements with 50 countries for holders of diplomatic and official passports, while several more agreements were under negotiation.
Highlighting key initiatives, Dr. Tariq Fazal said the Directorate General had launched a modern e-passport personalization system and enhanced the security features of machine-readable passports (MRPs) to curb forgery.
He said Pakistan was gradually transitioning from MRPs to e-passports in accordance with international aviation (ICAO) standards, allowing citizens to use e-gate facilities at local and foreign airports.
The e-passport, he added, includes a polycarbonate data page with an embedded biometric microchip and special anti-forgery elements. The new design also features laser-engraved data, secure electronic chips, visa pages showcasing Pakistan’s cultural heritage, the IPI Jura feature, and the addition of the mother’s name in juvenile passports.
“These reforms have strengthened Pakistan’s international image and played a key role in improving the country’s passport ranking,” the minister said.
Dr. Tariq Fazal said that Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements had also helped enhance ties with the Muslim world and other friendly nations. “We have received strong appreciation from Islamic countries, and our relations with Arab and other partners are growing steadily,” he added.
He expressed satisfaction that the ongoing reforms and technological upgrades were improving the credibility and global acceptance of Pakistan’s passport, reflecting the nation’s growing prestige and progress.