New Delhi – In a positive diplomatic development, India and Pakistan have renewed the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor agreement for another five years. The announcement was made by the Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday, confirming that the extension was agreed upon through diplomatic channels between the two neighboring countries.
The Kartarpur Corridor, which allows Indian pilgrims to visit Sri Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan without a visa, has been an important symbol of cross-border religious cooperation. The agreement was first signed in 2019, and its renewal ensures that this sacred passage remains open for Sikh pilgrims.
What the Agreement Entails:
- Validity Extension: The agreement has been extended for another five years, ensuring smooth access for pilgrims until at least 2029.
- Diplomatic Channels: The renewal was formalized through diplomatic discussions between the Indian and Pakistani governments.
- Foreign Minister’s Statement: India’s Foreign Minister, S. Jaishankar, also expressed satisfaction over the renewal. He shared on X (formerly Twitter), “India and Pakistan have renewed the agreement on Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor for the next five years.”
Importance of Kartarpur Sahib Corridor
The Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara holds immense religious significance for Sikhs, as it is the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. The corridor connects Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab, India, to Kartarpur in Pakistan, facilitating visa-free pilgrimage for devotees from India.
A Symbol of Religious Harmony
Despite the complex political relationship between India and Pakistan, the Kartarpur Corridor stands as a symbol of peace and cooperation. It allows thousands of Indian pilgrims to visit the gurdwara every year, maintaining a vital cultural and religious link between the two nations.
Looking Ahead
With the agreement now extended, both countries reaffirm their commitment to keeping the corridor functional and accessible. This renewal is a significant step in fostering better relations through religious diplomacy, offering hope for more peaceful collaborations in the future.
The extension of this agreement ensures that Sikh pilgrims can continue to visit one of their holiest sites, upholding the spirit of religious harmony between India and Pakistan.
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