AQR Deputy Custodian meets new Pakistani ambassador

AQR deputy custodian Mostafa Feizi, met with Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, newly appointed ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Iran, and emphasized importance of spiritual ties between two countries as well as need to facilitate Pakistani pilgrims’ affairs.
The meeting was held on Saturday morning, May 30, at protocol hall of Great Prophet  Courtyard at Imam Reza Shrine. 
During the one-hour talks, both sides discussed medical services, insurance for pilgrims, and readiness for artistic cooperation between Iran and Pakistan.
Referring to friendly relations between the two countries, Feizi said: “Pakistan ranks second among countries in number of pilgrims traveling to Mashhad”. 
“AQR has put special programs on agenda, including cultural and religious services for Urdu-speaking pilgrims and allocation of suitable spaces for Pakistani visitors”, he noted.
The deputy custodian added that issues and problems related to Pakistani pilgrims are being seriously pursued through pilgrimage committee of Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and that removing obstacles on their pilgrimage route remains a priority. 
Feizi also appreciated Pakistan’s active positions regarding recent regional developments.
Highlighting AQR’s service capacities, he said: “The organization, in line with guidance of Custodian of Astan Qods Razavi, seeks to improve service delivery for Urdu-speaking pilgrims through medical care at Razavi and Imam Reza super-specialty hospitals, accommodation facilities, educational services, and cultural programs”. 
He also promised to consider arrangements for presence of Pakistani artists at Imam Reza Shrine in coordination with Pakistan’s consulate in Mashhad.
For his part, Siddiqui thanked AQR for its hospitality and praised facilities provided for pilgrims at Imam Reza Shrine, which he had toured a day earlier, including Ghadir and Khedmat porticos. 
He called for closer monitoring of medical services, insurance, and related costs for Pakistani pilgrims, especially those with limited financial means, so that treatment expenses do not create hardship during their stay.
He also announced readiness of Pakistani artists and calligraphers to cooperate with AQR and said some already have experience working in religious sites. 
At end of meeting, Pakistani ambassador presented a gift featuring works by Pakistani artists, while Feizi offered blessed gifts from Imam Reza Shrine to Pakistani delegation and wished the ambassador success in his new post.