Lebanon
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reached out to his Lebanese counterpart, Najib Mikati, to request assistance in the safe evacuation of Pakistani nationals stranded in Syria amid the ongoing crisis.
According to an official statement, during their conversation, Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the challenging situation, emphasizing that all Syrian airports remain closed. Consequently, he pointed out that the only viable option for evacuation is through land routes via Lebanon.
The Prime Minister brought attention to the urgency of the matter, noting that around 600 Pakistani citizens are currently stranded in Syria.
In response, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s support and assured Shehbaz Sharif that Lebanon would issue visas for all stranded Pakistani citizens to ensure their swift evacuation. Mikati reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to providing all possible assistance to help evacuate the Pakistanis.
During the discussion, Shehbaz Sharif also recalled Pakistan’s support to Lebanon during its previous crises, stating that Pakistan was the first to send aid to Lebanon during its times of need.
Following the call, Shehbaz Sharif promptly contacted Pakistani ambassadors in Syria and Lebanon, directing them to coordinate efforts for evacuation by expediting visa arrangements and ensuring full support to affected citizens.
Furthermore, Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned recent Israeli aggression against Lebanon and reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also welcomed the recent ceasefire agreement in Lebanon while advocating for a similar ceasefire in Palestine.
Shehbaz emphasized that the entire nation stands with Lebanon during these difficult times and reasserted Pakistan’s commitment to providing humanitarian aid and assistance as needed.
On the same day, Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting to review measures for the safe evacuation of Pakistani nationals from Syria amidst the worsening security situation.
The meeting focused on implementing an immediate action plan through neighboring countries to ensure safe return. Shehbaz directed the Pakistani Embassy in Damascus to establish a dedicated information desk and helpline to ensure effective communication with affected citizens.
Additionally, the Crisis Management Unit of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been ordered to remain operational 24/7 until the evacuation is successfully executed.
Attendees at the meeting included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema, and other senior officials.
The Foreign Office spokesperson reassured that all Pakistani citizens in Syria are safe but advised caution as the situation remains volatile.
Pakistan continues to monitor developments in Syria closely and upholds its principled stance in support of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Furthermore, steps have been taken to strengthen security for Syrian diplomatic personnel in Pakistan, with additional protective measures confirmed for their safety.
Currently, over 2,000 Pakistanis, including pilgrims, are in Syria, with more than 700 having permanently settled there after marrying into Syrian families.
In light of the crisis, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already issued a travel advisory, emphasizing the need for caution. Efforts are ongoing to facilitate the repatriation of all Pakistani citizens stranded in Syria as soon as conditions permit.
