Lahore, Pakistan – The Pakistani government has taken swift action in response to a violent mob attack on foreign students in Kyrgyzstan. Following a distressing incident that endangered the lives of many students, the government organized multiple special flights to bring home affected students to ensure their safety.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar welcomed the returning students at Lahore airport, emphasizing the government’s commitment to their well-being. The government arranged four daily flights to facilitate the safe return of students, with a total of 540 students evacuated, ensuring their educational continuity and degree completion.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced the arrangement of commercial flights to repatriate the students, with the Pakistan Air Force operating a special flight for additional students. The government maintained constant communication with the students, keeping them informed about available flights to return home.
The violent clashes in Bishkek erupted after a brawl between Kyrgyz and Egyptian students, resulting in mob attacks on hostels and private lodgings of international students. Five Pakistani students were injured in the incident, prompting heightened security measures and increased police presence to protect the students, with Kyrgyz police quelling the violence through an agreement with the rioters.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif instructed Pakistani officials to ensure the safe return of injured students and their families, closely monitoring the situation. Despite a canceled visit to Kyrgyzstan to avoid politicizing the issue, diplomatic efforts led to assurances from Kyrgyz authorities that the situation was under control and perpetrators would be held accountable.
The Kyrgyz government arrested individuals involved in the attacks, enhancing security at student hostels to ensure the safety of Pakistani nationals. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar condemned the spread of misinformation by a political party, emphasizing that the government’s response to the incident was prompt and comprehensive in protecting Pakistani students abroad.
The Pakistani government’s ongoing liaison with Kyrgyz authorities aims to guarantee the safety and security of its nationals, with the embassy providing assistance and facilitating the return of students. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif remains devoted to the welfare of Pakistani citizens abroad, ensuring that further incidents are preempted through rigorous monitoring of the situation.