Key Takeaways
- The government has reversed its decision to issue blue passports to children of former MNAs.
- Future applications will require approval from the Interior Ministry and be limited in duration.
- The number of blue passport holders is set to decrease, with negotiations ongoing for visa exemptions.
In a significant policy shift, the government has announced stricter regulations on the issuance of official blue passports to children of former Members of the National Assembly (MNAs). Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry stated that all future applications will require approval from the interior secretary and, where necessary, the interior minister. This move comes in response to criticism over a recent law that would have extended this privilege.
According to Chaudhry, the number of blue passports has already been reduced from approximately 70,000 to fewer than 50,000, with plans for an additional 15-20 percent reduction. The government aims to streamline and reduce the number of holders as part of its broader policy objectives.
The minister emphasized that blue passports should be issued only for official duties and on a limited basis. He noted that Pakistan is currently in advanced discussions with Saudi Arabia regarding visa exemptions for blue passport holders, while negotiations are also underway with Italy and several other countries. Chaudhry maintained that the proposal conflicted with the government’s policy of limiting blue passport issuance.
The decision to tighten regulations follows a recent approval by the Senate committee on the bill extending this privilege to children of former MNAs. However, its fate remains in the hands of the coalition government. Chaudhry stated that the final decision will be made based on the government’s overall policy stance and strategic considerations.
The move is seen as part of a broader effort by the government to address concerns over the misuse of blue passports and to align with international standards for visa waiver agreements. The reduction in the number of holders is expected to facilitate smoother negotiations with other countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and Italy, which are key trading partners for Pakistan.
In his statement, Chaudhry highlighted the importance of maintaining strict controls over the issuance of blue passports. He stated, 'We need to ensure that these documents are used only for legitimate official purposes and not misused.' This stance is in line with the government’s commitment to enhancing security and reducing administrative inefficiencies.
'We need to ensure that these documents are used only for legitimate official purposes and not misused.'
Tallal Chaudhry, Minister of State for Interior, Minister of State for Interior
