PM Shehbaz Orders Safe Evacuation Of Pakistanis From Syria

Web Desk — Amid escalating instability in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken swift action to ensure the safe evacuation of Pakistani nationals stranded in the conflict-hit country. The government is prioritizing their safety and has initiated comprehensive measures for their secure return via neighboring countries.

Prime Minister’s Directives on Evacuation

– PM Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting on Monday to review the situation in Syria and oversee evacuation plans.

– Key directives issued by the PM:

  – Immediate formulation of an action plan for evacuation.

  – Establishment of an information desk and helpline at the Pakistan Embassy in Damascus.

  – Utilization of all available resources to ensure the safety of Pakistanis.

– Ordered the Foreign Office’s Crisis Management Unit (CMU) and embassy information desks to operate round-the-clock.

Crisis in Syria: Political Upheaval

– Syrian President Bashar al-Assad fled the country on Sunday after being ousted by rebels.

– The end of Assad’s 50-year dynasty has intensified concerns about regional instability.

– Damascus Airport closure has added logistical challenges to evacuation efforts.

Foreign Office’s Crisis Response

– The Foreign Office activated its Crisis Management Unit (CMU) last week to assist stranded Pakistanis.

– Issued advisories urging citizens in Syria to:

  – Exercise extreme caution.

  – Maintain close contact with the Pakistan Embassy in Damascus.

– The embassy engages with stranded nationals, including pilgrims (Zaireen).

Cooperation with Lebanon

– PM Shehbaz Sharif engaged in discussions with Lebanese PM Najib Mikati to facilitate evacuation through Lebanon.

– Key developments:

  – Lebanese PM assured full support, welcoming Pakistani nationals into Lebanon and assisting their onward travel to Pakistan.

  – Land routes to Lebanon followed by flights from Beirut have been identified as the only viable evacuation pathway.

– PM Shehbaz highlighted that 200-250 Pakistani pilgrims await evacuation from Damascus.

Participants in the Emergency Meeting

– The meeting was attended by senior officials, including:

  – Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

  – Defence Minister Khawaja Asif.

  – Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema.

  – Information Minister Attaullah Tarar.

  – Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.

Prime Minister’s Commitment

– PM Shehbaz reaffirmed that:

  – Protecting the lives and property of Pakistanis in Syria is the government’s top priority.

  – All measures will be taken to ensure their prompt and safe return home.

This initiative demonstrates Pakistan’s proactive response to ensure the well-being of its citizens during a critical time in Syria’s history.