ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the authorities concerned to devise an action plan for the safe evacuation of Pakistanis wishing to return from Syria through neighboring countries as soon as possible, citing the tense security situation in Syria following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
As per report, Syrian rebel fighters entered Damascus unopposed, overthrowing President Assad and ending nearly six decades of his family’s authoritarian rule after a swift advance that reversed the course of the 13-year civil war.
Prime Minister chaired a meeting to review the current situation in Syria and ensure the safe evacuation of Pakistanis in the country.
PM stressed, “All possible steps should be taken to ensure the safe evacuation of Pakistanis from Syria.”
Shehbaz stated that the safety of Pakistanis’ lives and property in Syria is our top priority, directing authorities to utilize all available resources for this purpose.
He said that the safety of Pakistanis’ lives and property in Syria is our top priority, instructing authorities to use all available resources for this purpose. Shehbaz also directed the Pakistan Embassy in Damascus to set up an information desk and a helpline to assist Pakistanis.
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Prime Minister directed that, until the security situation improves, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Crisis Management Unit and information desks at Pakistani embassies in Syria and its neighboring countries should remain operational 24/7.
The meeting was attended by Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi, and senior officials from the relevant departments.
“We are closely monitoring the evolving situation in Syria,” the Foreign Office said a day ago, adding, “Pakistani nationals are safe in Syria and have been advised to exercise caution. The Embassy of Pakistan in Syria is open to provide support and advice.”
A spokesperson for the FO said, “Pakistan has always supported the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Syria, and there has been no change in our principled stance.”
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“As of now, Damascus Airport is closed. Our embassy is in contact with stranded Pakistani nationals, including Zaireen [devotees], and will facilitate their return once the airport reopens,” it concluded.
Nearly 250 Pakistani pilgrims have been stranded in the turmoil-hit country after airlines cancelled flights to Lahore and other cities.
Pakistani nationals in Syria and their families have been urged to contact the CMU by phone at 051-9207887 and by email at cmu1@mofa.gov.pk.
