The Imam Hussain Cultural Center in Istanbul held discussions with a group of Turkish caravan officials who organize pilgrimages to the holy shrines in Iraq, focusing on potential support and facilitation services offered by the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him).

According to Sabah Al-Taliqani, Director of the Center, the meeting aimed to understand the challenges faced by these groups and explore ways the Shrine could assist, particularly in overcoming visa-related obstacles and improving pilgrim services. He explained that the most pressing concern raised by the caravan leaders was the difficulty in obtaining visas, especially after the transition to a new electronic system, which they described as ineffective and lacking responsiveness to inquiries.

In response, and in line with the directives of the General Secretariat of the Holy Shrine, it was agreed that efforts would be made to help pilgrims secure visas through coordination with the Shrine. The Center will also provide information about available services at pilgrim rest areas and distribute printed materials, including prayer and Ziyarah books in Turkish, to enhance the pilgrims' spiritual experience. These efforts aim to strengthen pilgrims’ knowledge of the lives of the Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them), deepen their connection to the pilgrimage, and encourage greater adherence to their teachings and legacy.

At the conclusion of the meeting, a working plan was developed in cooperation with the caravan officials to organize their efforts more effectively and ensure continued communication. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to serving the followers of the Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them) and promoting greater participation in religious pilgrimages.

The Imam Hussain Cultural Center in Istanbul, affiliated with the International Media Center of the Media Department at the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain, is dedicated to commemorating the occasions of the Ahlulbayt, collaborating with religious and cultural institutions in Turkey, and offering services that foster loyalty to the Hussaini cause and raise awareness of its values among the Turkish public.

Abbas Al-Taee