Karachi Declares Public Holiday on April 23 for Iranian President’s Visit

Karachi’s Commissioner declared April 23 a public holiday throughout the city.

A notification from the Commissioner here on Sunday stated that public and private sectors, including schools, will be closed. The holiday coincides with the arrival of international dignitaries.

The announcement follows the Foreign Office’s confirmation that Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will visit Pakistan from April 22 to 24.

The visit by President Ebrahim Raisi represents the first state visit to Pakistan following the country’s recent general elections. Accompanied by a distinguished delegation, President Raisi aims to engage in substantial discussions designed to strengthen bilateral relations between Iran and Pakistan. His delegation includes Iran’s Foreign Minister and other senior officials, supported by a significant trade delegation, underscoring the importance of this diplomatic engagement.

President Raisi is scheduled to meet Pakistan’s President and Prime Minister, the Senate’s Chairman and the National Assembly’s Speaker during his stay. His itinerary also includes visits to Lahore and Karachi, where he will meet with provincial leaders. These meetings will focus on enhancing cooperation in various sectors, such as trade, energy, and agriculture and will address regional and global issues, including counterterrorism efforts.

According to sources, President Raisi’s visit will cover topics like bilateral security, the gas pipeline project, and potential free trade agreements.