Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced that the federal government will cover all travel expenses for stranded Pakistani students who wish to return to the country following violent attacks on foreign students in Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek. The clashes, sparked by a confrontation between locals and Egyptian nationals on May 13, left at least five Pakistani students injured.
Reports suggesting the death of Pakistani students were refuted by Pakistan’s embassy in Bishkek, with Ambassador Hasan Zaigham confirming that Shahzaib, a Pakistani national injured in the violence, is now in stable condition.
In an official statement, the Prime Minister expressed grave concern over the mob violence targeting foreign students and directed Federal Minister for Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan Affairs, Amir Muqam, to visit Kyrgyzstan and assist stranded Pakistani nationals. Muqam was tasked with meeting Pakistani students to address their grievances and is set to depart for Bishkek on Saturday to engage with local officials.
The Prime Minister emphasized the provision of comprehensive assistance to affected Pakistani students and instructed that those wishing to return to Pakistan be supported at government expense. He assured continuous communication between students and their families through the embassy to ensure they are not alone during this challenging period.
Additionally, Islamabad lodged a protest with Kyrgyzstan’s top diplomat in response to the violence, urging the Kyrgyz government to take all necessary measures to safeguard Pakistani students and citizens. Kyrgyz police have reportedly deployed forces to restore calm in Bishkek following the attacks, during which hundreds of Kyrgyz men targeted buildings housing foreign students, including Pakistanis.
