Islamabad:Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Monday witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the integration of databases between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and the Higher Education Commission (HEC).

The MoU will simplify attestation procedures, enhance transparency and strengthen the verification of educational documents. Digital certificates and online services will reduce delays and eliminate the need for physical visits in most cases, particularly facilitating overseas Pakistanis.

Ishaq Dar emphasised that improving consular services has remained a priority for him, including through the introduction of Pakistan's Apostille system in 2024. He noted that today's initiative is a step in the right direction towards making attestation services more accessible, efficient and convenient for Pakistanis at home and abroad.

Ishaq Dar appreciated the efforts of all stakeholders, particularly MoFA, HEC, the Inter Board Coordination Commission (IBCC) and the National Information Technology Board (NITB), in advancing this initiative.