Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced on Friday that Pakistan has successfully repatriated 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian nationals who were earlier detained on vessels seized in international waters by United States authorities.
According to Beyond Time News, the individuals were brought back through coordinated diplomatic efforts involving multiple countries, including Singapore, Thailand, and the United States.
Smooth Return Through Multi-Country Coordination
In an official statement shared on X, Ishaq Dar said all repatriated individuals are in good health and “high spirits.” He emphasized that the government places strong priority on the safety and welfare of Pakistanis living or working abroad, especially those facing difficult circumstances.
The group first travelled from Singapore to Bangkok, where they boarded their onward flight scheduled to land in Islamabad later the same day. The Pakistani nationals are expected to return home upon arrival, while arrangements will be made for Iranian citizens to continue their journey back to Iran.
Diplomatic Efforts Behind the Operation
The deputy prime minister acknowledged the coordinated role of several international partners in making the repatriation possible.
He expressed gratitude to Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and the Singaporean government for their assistance throughout the process. He also thanked the government of Thailand for facilitating transit arrangements in Bangkok.
Dar further appreciated the cooperation of Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, noting Iran’s trust in Pakistan during the repatriation process.
He also recognized the role of United States authorities, saying their coordination helped ensure a smooth and safe return of all individuals involved.
Read more:Pakistan-Led Mediation in US-Iran Talks in Difficult Phase
Government Departments and Missions Played Key Role
Ishaq Dar also praised the efforts of Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, and diplomatic missions in Singapore and Thailand. He said their timely coordination ensured the successful completion of the operation without complications.
Officials confirmed that all passengers remained safe throughout the process and were transferred under proper international travel arrangements.
Background of the Incident
Earlier reports indicated that several vessels carrying Pakistani and Iranian seafarers were seized by US authorities in the high seas amid heightened tensions in the region. The situation developed during ongoing geopolitical friction linked to maritime security concerns around key shipping routes.
Pakistan had been actively engaging with international partners to ensure the safe return of its citizens and others affected by the incident.
Continued Efforts for Overseas Pakistanis
The Foreign Office has reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad, particularly those working in challenging environments such as maritime and shipping sectors.
Officials say diplomatic channels will continue to be used to resolve similar cases in the future and ensure safe repatriation wherever needed.
Conclusion
The successful return of Pakistani and Iranian nationals highlights coordinated international diplomacy and swift consular action. Authorities have described the development as a positive outcome of cooperation between multiple countries during a sensitive situation at sea.
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FAQs
1. How many Pakistani nationals were repatriated?
A total of 11 Pakistani nationals were brought back.
2. Were only Pakistanis involved?
No, 20 Iranian nationals were also repatriated through the same arrangement.
3. Which countries helped in the process?
Singapore, Thailand, the United States, and Iran all played a role in coordination.
4. What is the condition of the repatriated individuals?
According to officials, all individuals are in good health and stable condition.
5. Where did the final transit take place?
The final transit before reaching Pakistan was in Bangkok, Thailand.
