It seems Pakistan is on the brink of damaging its relationship with Saudi Arabia, but this time, it’s not due to terrorism or illegal immigration. It’s about begging!
Yes, you heard it right. Pakistan, known for exporting terrorism and making India its victim, has even sent donkeys to China. Now, adding to this unusual list of exports are beggars. The issue has grown so significant that countries like Saudi Arabia and Iraq have requested the Pakistani government to put an end to the flow of beggars.
Saudi Arabia had warned Pakistan not to send beggars and thieves under the guise of pilgrims, citing that 90% of pickpockets and beggars arrested in Saudi Arabia are Pakistani nationals. Saudi authorities have expressed their frustration, mentioning that their prisons are overflowing due to these individuals. In response, the Saudi Arabia government significantly reduced the number of Pakistan Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs) from 905 to just 46.
Furthermore, the holy pilgrimage of Hajj, once considered a sacred journey, has become a luxury for Pakistanis. The cost has surged by nearly 75% since the previous year. In an unprecedented move, the government has surrendered its Hajj quota to Saudi Arabia, which is expected to save the nation a substantial $24 million.
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Interestingly, a vast majority of beggars detained in West Asian nations are of Pakistani origin. These beggars often find themselves incarcerated in jails in Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Secretary of Overseas Pakistanis, Zeeshan Khanzada, confirmed that “Ambassadors of Iraq and Saudi Arabia have told us that Pakistani beggars travel abroad under the guise of ziarat (pilgrimage) on Umrah visas and later engage in begging on the streets,” as reported by Pakistan’s Geo News Urdu.
The emergence of Pakistan as an exporter of beggars is indeed an unusual development. Historically, Pakistan has been embroiled in regional conflicts and faced criticism for its role in promoting terrorism, particularly in relation to India. Now, the export of beggars is casting a shadow over Pakistan’s international relations.
Saudi Arabia’s stern warning to Pakistan regarding beggars and thieves being sent under the guise of pilgrims is a clear indication of the severity of the issue. The Saudi government’s assertion that 90% of the pickpockets and beggars arrested in the country are of Pakistani origin has raised serious concerns. Saudi authorities have even faced the dilemma of accommodating these individuals in overcrowded prisons.
BIG NEWS – Saudi Arabia REJECTS Pak's request & says the decision of cutting Pakistan Pilgrims groups is FINAL 🔥🔥
Saudi had warned Pak to not send beggars & thieves under the guise of pilgrims as it said 90% of pickpockets & beggars arrested in Saudi are Pak nationals🔥
Saudi…— Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) October 21, 2023
As a consequence of these developments, Saudi Arabia has taken action by reducing the number of Pakistani Hajj Group Organizers from 905 to just 46. This is a significant reduction and reflects Saudi Arabia’s desire to address the issue promptly. It underscores the growing tension between the two nations, primarily stemming from Pakistan’s role in the export of beggars.
The rising cost of the Hajj pilgrimage in Pakistan adds another layer to the issue. Hajj, a religious journey cherished by millions of Muslims worldwide, is becoming increasingly unaffordable for Pakistanis. The 75% increase in costs since the previous year has made it a luxury for many. As a result, the Pakistani government has chosen to surrender its Hajj quota to Saudi Arabia, a decision driven by financial considerations.
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The prevalence of Pakistani beggars in West Asian nations, particularly in Saudi Arabia and Iraq, is a matter of significant concern. The Secretary of Overseas Pakistanis, Zeeshan Khanzada, has acknowledged the severity of the problem. He revealed that ambassadors from Iraq and Saudi Arabia have reported that many Pakistani beggars travel abroad using Umrah visas, only to engage in begging once they arrive. This not only tarnishes Pakistan’s image but also strains diplomatic relations.
Pakistan’s export of beggars has emerged as an unexpected and challenging issue that is straining its relations with Saudi Arabia. The prevalence of Pakistani beggars in West Asian nations is a problem that requires immediate attention. Despite these concerning developments, some individuals still believe that Pakistan excels in managing hunger and happiness when compared to its neighbor, India. Yeah, let that sink in!
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