In a significant repatriation effort, two special flights carrying Pakistani students from Kyrgyzstan successfully landed in their home country. The flights, KA-4575 and KA-6571, transported approximately 360 Pakistani students from Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, to Islamabad and Lahore International Airports respectively.
Families and relatives gathered at the airports to welcome their loved ones. To facilitate the arriving students, special counters were set up in the international arrival lounges, and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) expedited the immigration process to ensure a smooth transition.
Earlier, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar addressed the nation, debunking rumors circulating on social media about fatalities among Pakistani students in Kyrgyzstan. “Fake news was spread on social media as not a single student has been killed. About 16 students sustained injuries out of which four were Pakistani,” Dar clarified during a press conference in Lahore.
Also Read: Mohammad Mokhber to Serve as Iran’s Acting President
The minister detailed the events leading to the students’ return, noting that the incident involved not only Pakistani students but also those from India, Bangladesh, and Arab countries. Dar emphasized that the Pakistani government had been in continuous contact with Kyrgyz authorities and the Pakistani ambassador in Kyrgyzstan to monitor the situation closely.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is personally overseeing the repatriation efforts, ensuring the safety and swift return of Pakistani nationals. So far, 130 students have returned, with an additional 540 expected to arrive today. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reactivated its emergency unit to handle the situation effectively.
Speaking on the incident, Dar relayed information from the Kyrgyz Foreign Minister, who attributed the unrest to opposition groups running campaigns against international students, contrary to the government’s policies.
This coordinated effort underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad and responding promptly to crises involving Pakistani nationals.