Pakistan open to granting travel permit to Punjab Chief Minister for Lahore event

Pakistan announced on Friday that it would think about giving a travel permit to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann if the Indian leader wants to visit. Sajjad Haider Khan, who speaks for the Pakistan Foreign Office, shared this during his weekly press meet when asked about a possible trip by the Aam Aadmi Party member. Mr. Khan added that whether New Delhi allows Mr. Mann to cross the border is a totally different issue. Earlier on October 23, Mr. Mann mentioned that he received an invitation to take part in the World Punjabi Conference happening in Lahore on November 27. At that time, he wondered aloud if he would get permission to make the journey, noting that both regions share the same culture and that local poets plan to attend. He also wished for all members of the Punjab Legislative Assembly to visit Kartarpur Sahib if that crossing reopens.

Context

The Kartarpur Corridor connects Dera Baba Nanak in Indian Punjab with Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan, allowing pilgrims to visit the sacred site without needing a standard travel stamp under normal conditions. This route has stayed shut for travelers coming from the Indian side following military strikes and security tensions in May 2025.