ISLAMABAD: Senator Saleem Mandviwalla of the Pakistan Peoples Party hasexpressed optimism that the United States will soon lift restrictions onimmigration visas affecting Pakistani nationals. Speaking to media inWashington during the recent Pakistan-US Intra-Parliamentary Dialogue, hehighlighted ongoing discussions aimed at resolving visa-related challenges.The senator indicated that expectations are high for policy adjustments,particularly concerning barriers imposed on Pakistani applicants. Thisdevelopment follows a series of bilateral engagements focused on enhancingparliamentary cooperation and addressing mutual concerns in immigration andsecurity domains.
The US Department of State implemented a suspension on immigrant visaprocessing for nationals of 75 countries, including Pakistan, effective inearly 2026. This measure, linked to public charge concerns and nationalsecurity considerations, has significantly impacted aspiring immigrantsfrom affected nations. Pakistan has been among the countries experiencingprolonged delays and outright halts in visa issuances for family-based andemployment-based immigration categories. Such restrictions have drawnattention from Pakistani officials seeking diplomatic resolutions throughlegislative channels.
During the dialogue held in Washington, Senator Mandviwalla, alongsideSenator Rana Mahmoodul Hassan, represented Pakistan. The discussionscovered parliamentary collaboration, security cooperation, tradeopportunities, and immigration policies. Participants emphasized theimportance of sustained inter-parliamentary exchanges to foster mutualunderstanding. The senator specifically noted that issues arising fromAfghan nationals using Pakistani identities to apply for US visas would beformally raised with American authorities. This matter has contributed toheightened scrutiny on applications originating from Pakistan.
Senator Mandviwalla further stated that a follow-up parliamentarydelegation from Pakistan is expected to visit the United States shortly.The objective remains to build greater harmony among electedrepresentatives of both countries. Such visits are intended to facilitatedirect engagement with US lawmakers and officials, thereby advancingbilateral interests. Previous delegations have similarly focused onstrategic, economic, and diplomatic ties, underscoring the value ofpeople-to-people and legislative contacts in strengthening relations.
The visa suspension has broader implications for Pakistan-US ties, whichhave historically encompassed counterterrorism, economic assistance, andregional stability. Immigration restrictions add another layer ofcomplexity to an already multifaceted relationship. Pakistani communitiesin the United States, along with families awaiting reunification, havevoiced concerns over the indefinite pause. Data from US visa statisticsindicate a sharp decline in issuances to Pakistani applicants in recentperiods, exacerbating humanitarian and economic challenges for affectedindividuals.
Efforts to address the Afghan identity verification issue reflectPakistan’s commitment to cooperating on security matters while advocatingfor fair treatment of genuine Pakistani applicants. US authorities haveimplemented additional national security measures, includingcountry-specific factors in adjudications, following incidents involvingAfghan nationals. These policies aim to enhance vetting processes but haveresulted in widespread delays across multiple visa categories. Bilateraldialogues provide a platform for clarifying misconceptions and promotingevidence-based policy adjustments.
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The inter-parliamentary mechanism serves as an effective channel fornon-executive engagement between the two nations. By involving legislators,it complements traditional diplomatic tracks and allows for nuanceddiscussions on sensitive topics like immigration. The recent Washingtonmeeting demonstrated willingness on both sides to explore collaborativesolutions. Sustained follow-up is anticipated to yield tangible progress,particularly in alleviating visa bottlenecks that hinder people-to-peopleexchanges.
Observers note that resolving visa restrictions could positively influenceother areas of cooperation, including trade and investment. Pakistan hasconsistently highlighted its role in regional stability andcounterterrorism, seeking reciprocal measures from the United States. Thesenator’s optimistic outlook aligns with broader diplomatic endeavors torestore balanced relations. As delegations prepare for future visits, thefocus remains on constructive dialogue to overcome existing hurdles.
In conclusion, the parliamentary engagements underscore the strategicimportance of legislative diplomacy in navigating bilateral challenges.With expectations for policy easing, stakeholders await furtherdevelopments that could facilitate smoother immigration pathways forPakistani nationals.
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