ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday ordered the establishment of separate immigration counters at all international airports to facilitate foreign passengers and boost tourism and investment.

The decision was taken to “promote tourism in the country, ensure continuity of business activities and facilitate foreign investment”, said a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office.

It added that the establishment of the counters would reduce the immigration processing time at the airports.

It expla­ined Pakistanis retu­rning to the country would be able to complete their immigration process in a shorter time after the establishment of separate counters. “The initiative is part of a strategy to make Pakistan more attr­active and friendly for global tourists, investors, and business delegations,” the PMO said.

Published in Dawn, August 3rd, 2025