FO clarifies reports about visa problems for Nigerian nationals

ISLAMABAD : Foreign Office on Thursday said Pakistan’s mission in Abuja, Nigeria has been following the procedures recommended by ANF and security agencies for issuing visa to Nigerian nationals. Commenting on a report regarding alleged irregularities in issuance of visas to Nigerian nationals, the Foreign Office spokesman said, the news story gave an incorrect picture and are regrettable.
The spokesman said, “Our missions abroad including that in Abuja abide by the instructions received from Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Narcotics Control and Anti-Narcotics Forces (ANF), Ministry of Foreign Affairs and others while issuing visas to foreign nationals.”
He said Pakistan’s mission in Abuja is also following the procedures recommended by ANF first in March 2006 and then by security agencies in September 2007.
The spokesman said according to these procedures Nigerian nationals intending to visit Pakistan for business purposes are required to produce, invitations from well established Pakistani companies, local company sponsor document, certification from the Nigerian National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and a certificate from a Pakistani chamber of commerce.
He said Pakistan is cooperating with the international community in fighting the menace of drug trafficking. He said Pakistan’s efforts in this regard are appreciated internationally adding that the challenge of nacro trade requires intensified international efforts.
The spokesman further said, “Pakistan seeks close and friendly relations with African countries and have a consistent policy to promote any strengthen relations with them.”
He said Pakistan maintains close cooperation with African countries in multilateral fora.
The spokesman said, “We are making efforts to enhance economic and trade interaction with the African continent. This is consistent with the important trend of cooperation between African continent and major Asian countries which should be visible to every one.”
He said, “We cannot allow any elements to detract us from our policy and our efforts for this purpose.”