Islamabad, Oct 23: Pakistan and India Extend Kartarpur Corridor Agreement for Five More Years
The deal was first signed on October 24, 2019, with a five-year period. It will expire on October 24, 2024. According to a Foreign Office spokeswoman, its renewal demonstrates Pakistan’s unwavering dedication to promoting interfaith cooperation and peaceful coexistence.
Baba Guru Nanak, the renowned founder of Sikhism, spent his last days at the holy site of Gurudwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, which is still accessible to pilgrims from India without a visa according to the deal.
Since its establishment, the corridor has made it easier for thousands of worshippers to visit this sacred location. The Kartarpur Corridor satisfies the Sikh community’s long-held desire to have access to one of their most sacred sites.
It demonstrates Pakistan’s understanding of how critical it is to protect religious minority’ rights. The international community has widely praised the effort, including Antonio Guterres, the secretary-general of the United Nations, who called it a Corridor of Hope.
Additionally, the corridor affects both countries‘ economies. Businesses in the Kartarpur region profit from the surge in local economies brought about by the stream of Indian pilgrims.
In order to provide pilgrims with a comfortable and unforgettable experience, the Pakistani government has taken action to improve infrastructure and amenities.
This emphasis on hospitality is part of a larger plan to grow religious tourism, which has the potential to boost Pakistan’s economy and build goodwill with India.
An important turning point in Pakistan-India ties is the five-year renewal of the Kartarpur Corridor Agreement. It serves as a reminder that despite their differences, cultural and religious ties can help the two nations find common ground.
The corridor is a ray of hope for peace and collaboration as both countries negotiate the difficulties of their relationship.
