Top officials from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and Iran convened in Erbil to discuss preparations for the impending influx of Iranian pilgrims, who will journey to Iraq through the Haj Omran border crossing to participate in the solemn observance of Arbaeen. This collaborative meeting signals the commitment to ensuring a seamless pilgrimage experience for visitors from Iran.

In a significant diplomatic meeting, Rebar Ahmed, the Minister of Interior for the Kurdistan Region, held discussions with Iran's Deputy Minister of Interior, Mohammad Mir Ahmadi. The meeting, attended by the Iranian Consul General in Erbil and the Governor of Urmia, focused on addressing various aspects of the forthcoming pilgrimage.

Foremost among the topics covered was the facilitation of entry for Iranian visitors arriving via the Haj Omran border crossing. This gateway will serve as their passage into Iraq, enabling them to partake in the rituals associated with the observance of Imam Hussein's Arbaeen.

Earlier assessments by Deler Mohammed, the Director of Tourism in Erbil, projected that approximately 500,000 Iranian pilgrims would make their way to Erbil via the Haj Omran border crossing. Subsequently, they will embark on spiritual journeys to revered sites within Iraq. After completing their pilgrimages, these visitors will return to Erbil before heading back to Iran.

To gain firsthand insights into the readiness of the Haj Omran border crossing for the anticipated surge in visitors, the Iranian Deputy Minister of Interior and the Governor of Urmia made an official visit to the border crossing. During this inspection, the Iranian Deputy Minister expressed gratitude to the Kurdistan Regional Government for its diligent efforts in preparing the Haj Omran international border crossing to accommodate Iranian pilgrims.

It is noteworthy that this collaborative effort builds upon a precedent set in the previous year. Following an agreement between the Governor of Erbil and the Governor of Urmia, the formal entry of Iranian visitors into the Kurdistan Region for the purpose of visiting Iraq's sacred sites commenced through the Haj Omran border crossing. During that period, over 70,000 Iranian pilgrims passed through the Haj Omran border crossing to embark on spiritual pilgrimages within Iraq.

The high-level meeting between Kurdistan Regional Government officials and the Iranian Deputy Minister of Interior reflects the commitment to facilitating a smooth and organized pilgrimage for Iranian visitors coming to Iraq for the observance of Arbaeen. These joint preparations not only promote cultural and religious exchange but also strengthen the regional bonds between the Kurdistan Region and Iran.