Islamabad: The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has issued certificates to authorized "Ziyarat Group Organizers" (ZGOs) for undertaking visits to holy sites in Iran, Iraq, and Syria. Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf distributed the certificates among registered ZGOs today.

According to Radio Pakistan, the minister urged all the registered ZGOs to ensure proper arrangements for travel, accommodation, food, and other facilities for the pilgrims, known as Zaireen. He stated that the government has initiated the implementation of the new Ziyarat Policy under which the existing "Salar System" will soon be abolished completely.

Under the new policy, Zaireen intending to visit Iran, Iraq, and Syria will have to plan their journey through the registered ZGOs only. The system aims to provide better facilities, transparent procedures, and safe travel for pilgrims. The Ministry of Religious Affairs has received 1,413 applications for registration so far.

Security clearance has been granted to 585 companies, and in the first phase, 24 companies have been declared eligible for registration upon completion of required documentation. The remaining companies will be issued registration certificates once they complete the necessary paperwork.