Sweden Resumes Visa Services in Islamabad

The Swedish government has declared the restoration of visa operations in Islamabad, facilitating short-term visits to Sweden for Pakistani citizens, according to the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

This announcement follows bilateral political discussions held last week between the foreign affairs ministries of Pakistan and Sweden.

Starting July 7, Pakistani citizens can submit applications within Pakistan for Schengen visas, allowing visits to Sweden for durations of up to 90 days, the statement specified.

A representative from the Foreign Office stated, “Pakistan appreciates this encouraging step, which demonstrates the deepening of bilateral ties between our nations.”

Ambassador Muhammad Ayub, the Additional Foreign Secretary (Europe), headed the Pakistani delegation at the Stockholm bilateral discussions. The Swedish delegation was led by the Director General for Global Affairs from their Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During the 19th round of bilateral political discussions, Pakistan and Sweden reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing cooperation in essential sectors, including the green transition, digitisation, sustainable technologies and ICT.

Both parties engaged in discussions covering the entirety of their bilateral relations, also exchanging perspectives on both regional and global matters.