Pakistan, India sign historic Kartarpur Corridor agreement
The historic Kartarpur Corridor agreement between Pakistan and India was signed to today at Wagah border. This agreement will allow Sikh pilgrims visa-free access to the religion’s holy site in Punjab’s Narowal district.
“Under the agreement, the corridor will remain open seven days a week from dawn to dusk,” says FO spokesperson.
The document of the agreement was signed by Director General South Asia and SAARC Dr. Mohammad Faisal at the Kartarpur zero line. The corridor will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Imran Khan on November 9.
The inauguration of Kartarpur Corridor would coincide with the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of founder of Sikhism Baba Guru Nanak Sahib.
While talking to the press after signing the agreement, Dr. Faisal briefed the press. He added. “Under the agreement, India will provide a list of pilgrims ten days before their visits so that they could be properly received,” adding that the first group will arrive at the pilgrimage site using the corridor on November 9.
The FO official also confirmed that Islamabad will allow five thousand pilgrims daily and “and if there is more capacity we will accommodate them too”.
“Roads and a reception center have been built in the area. A huge Gurdwara has been built, which is being described as the biggest in the world.”
He further said that details of the agreement will soon be shared but added that the Sikh pilgrims will have to carry their passports and a $20 fee will be charged from them.
The FO official also lauded his team’s efforts, saying negotiating with India was not easy because of the history the two countries share.
Responding to a question, Dr. Faisal reiterated that Pakistan’s position on occupied Kashmir has not changed.
“It was difficult and tough negotiations with India given the historically tense relations with the country,” Dr. Faisal said.
