By: Abid Siddique Chaudhry
The World Ambassador (TWA)
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Islamabad: The German Ambassador to Pakistan, Ina Lepel, paid an official visit to the Passport Headquarters along with a high-level diplomatic delegation. The delegation was warmly received by Mustafa Jamal Qazi, who briefed them on the overall performance of the Passport Department, ongoing digital reforms, and service delivery aligned with international standards.

Comprehensive Briefing on Modern Systems
During the briefing, the delegation was informed about the department’s digitalization initiatives, institutional reforms, and citizen-centric services. Special emphasis was placed on advanced passport security features, standardized production processes, and quality assurance measures implemented in line with global requirements.

Special Briefing on “SHUKRA” System
The delegation also received a dedicated briefing on Secure Hybrid Intelligence for Knowledge-Based Response Analytics (SHUKRA). The system is designed to strengthen data analytics, risk assessment, and secure identity management, further enhancing the integrity of Pakistan’s
passport regime.

Visit to E-Passport and Production Facilities
The German Ambassador and her delegation visited the e-passport section, call center, forensic laboratory, and the modern passport production unit. DG Passports Mustafa Jamal Qazi highlighted the world-class passport production standards and multi-layered security mechanisms adopted by Pakistan.

Improvement in Global Passport Ranking
Ambassador Ina Lepel appreciated the production of e-passports and the advanced security features, acknowledging the efforts of the Passport Department in improving the global ranking of the Pakistani passport.
Speaking on the occasion, Mustafa Jamal Qazi stated that security measures have been implemented in line with international best practices, and that the introduction of e-passports has made the immigration process significantly easier and more secure for citizens.

Assurance of Technical Cooperation
The German Ambassador praised Pakistan’s reform initiatives and assured full technical cooperation with the Passport Department to further strengthen systems and capacity.