Pakistan has reduced the number of blue passports issued in the country from 75,000 to 45,000. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry shared the update during a Senate discussion on the Passport Bill.
Chaudhry said the number of blue passports could affect Pakistan’s international passport ranking. He stressed that the government must take the matter seriously because of its potential impact on global travel arrangements.
According to the minister, Pakistan previously had approximately 75,000 blue passports in circulation. The number has now been reduced to 45,000.
He explained that the issue involves more than the issuance of official travel documents. The number of blue passports may also be relevant to discussions about visa-free entry arrangements with other countries.
Blue Passports Linked to Visa-Free Travel Discussions
Talal Chaudhry said foreign governments ask about Pakistan’s blue passport numbers during discussions on visa-free travel arrangements.
He noted that Pakistani officials had previously informed other countries that approximately 75,000 blue passports were in circulation. The government has since reduced that figure to 45,000.
The minister highlighted the importance of managing official travel documents carefully. He said the number of blue passports could have implications for Pakistan’s international standing and negotiations over travel facilities.
Pakistan has been seeking better international passport standing and greater travel facilitation for its citizens. During these discussions, the number of blue passports has emerged as a relevant issue.
However, the minister’s remarks focused on the potential connection between blue passports, diplomatic discussions, and Pakistan’s global passport ranking.
Talal Chaudhry Opposes Blue Passports for Former MPs
The minister also opposed issuing blue passports to former members of parliament. He called for a review of the practice to ensure passports are issued only to eligible individuals.
Chaudhry further raised concerns about blue passports being issued to the children of government officials. He said this practice should be stopped if such issuance was taking place.
His comments highlighted the need for stricter checks on eligibility for official travel documents. The minister emphasised that passport issuance rules should be followed carefully.
The government’s approach to blue passports could affect how official travel privileges are managed. The minister’s statements also brought attention to the distinction between eligible passport holders and individuals who may not qualify.
Senate Discusses Passport Bill
The remarks came as the Senate considered the Passport Bill. The discussion covered the issuance of official travel documents and their possible implications for Pakistan’s international relations.
Chaudhry linked the number of blue passports to broader concerns about international passport standing and travel facilitation. He stressed the importance of reviewing issuance practices and enforcing eligibility requirements.
The reduction from 75,000 to 45,000 represents a decrease of 30,000 blue passports. The minister’s comments indicate that the government considers the issue relevant to diplomatic engagement and international travel arrangements.
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The Senate discussion has brought renewed attention to official passport policies. Further consideration of the Passport Bill may address questions surrounding eligibility and the issuance of these travel documents.
