Officials have highlighted the need to facilitate visa procedures for Pakistani citizens wishing to travel to Jordan, citing a strong public desire to visit sacred religious sites in the Hashemite Kingdom.
According to an official report today report today, the call for smoother travel arrangements came during a high-level meeting focused on bolstering cultural and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The discussion involved Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Division Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Jordan, Major General (R) Khurram Sarfraz Khan, and Secretary of the division, Asad Rehman Gillani.
During the session at the National Heritage and Culture Division, Secretary Gillani stressed that the number of Pakistanis travelling to Jordan is relatively low. In response, Ambassador-designate Khan explained that while multiple factors contribute to the limited presence, Jordan is home to the shrines of several Prophets and Companions (RA), which a large number of Pakistanis are keen to visit.
Both sides agreed that cultural diplomacy is an effective means to reinforce bilateral bonds. The ambassador-designate remarked that the nations” shared heritage serves as a powerful tool for building connections, noting that the relationship dates back to Pakistan”s independence.
To enhance people-to-people contacts, Minister Khichi proposed organising a Jordan Cultural Week in Pakistan, similar to events the country regularly hosts for other nations.
The talks also covered economic and artistic collaboration. Appreciating Pakistani craftsmanship, the ambassador-designate specifically mentioned the world-renowned intricate woodwork of Chiniot. Secretary Gillani suggested that Pakistani handicrafts, artworks, and cultural products could be sent to Jordan for exhibitions.
Building on this, the secretary proposed holding a Pakistan-Jordan Furniture Expo in Jordan as a platform to introduce and promote Pakistani wood carving and handicrafts at an international level.
The minister stated that following the ‘Marka-e-Haq,’ Pakistan has earned renewed respect on the global stage, with several countries now eager to fortify their relations. While government-level ties with Jordan are strong, officials conceded a need to further strengthen connections at the public level.
Concluding the deliberations, the ambassador-designate praised the talent of Pakistani youth, highlighting their innovative and creative entrepreneurial ideas.