AhlulBayt News Agency

source : IRNA
Tuesday

11 April 2023

8:00:25 AM
1357506

Iranian official: Iraq agrees to issue low-cost visas for Arbaeen pilgrims

An Iranian official says an agreement has been reached with the Iraqi government to facilitate the annual march of Arbaeen this year, including the issuance of low-cost special visas for Iranian pilgrims.

AhlulBayt News Agency: An Iranian official says an agreement has been reached with the Iraqi government to facilitate the annual march of Arbaeen this year, including the issuance of low-cost special visas for Iranian pilgrims.

Seyyed Majid Mirahmadi, head of the Central Headquarters of Arbaeen, said on Sunday that the agreement with the Interior Ministry of Iraq would address lengthy delays and overcrowdings that typically compound the Arbaeen pilgrimage each year.

“This year, we are looking to determine in advance the dates of every pilgrim’s departure and return, as well as the border they intend to cross,” Mirahmadi said after a meeting with governors of Iranian provinces bordering Iraq.

Around three million Iranians flocked to Iraq in September 2022 to take part in the Arbaeen commemorations, setting a new record.

Arbaeen marks the 40th day after the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), the third Shia Imam. Millions of pilgrims from around the world undertake an 80-km walk between the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala for the ritual.

Mirahmadi said the Iraqi government wants only a set number of pilgrims to enter Iraq this year so that it can better provide transportation and other services.


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