ISLAMABAD: Another flight bringing back Pakistani students from Kyrgyzstan’s capital of Bishkek arrived at Islamabad International Airport after a mob attack left several international students, including Pakistanis, injured.
The students were received by Kashmir Affairs Minister Amir Muqam who enquired about the students’ well-being and assured them that the government would provide all kinds of assistance to those who wish to return to the country, adding that more flights would be bringing Pakistani students home.
“Our first priority is the safety of Pakistani students. The protection of life and property of Pakistanis will be ensured in every case,” Muqam said.He said the prime minister immediately took steps to protect Pakistani students after this incident and had himself monitored the situation.
Elsewhere, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar assured that all possible measures would be taken to facilitate the students returning from Bishkek.Talking to the media at Allama Iqbal International Airport, where he welcomed 170 Pakistani students arriving on a special flight from Bishkek, the minister highlighted the government’s efforts.
He noted that it was the fourth flight from the Kyrgyz local airline Aero Nomad, bringing the total number of returning students to 540.Tarar highlighted the government’s “unwavering focus” on the well-being of returning students. He expressed gratitude that no Pakistani student was harmed.
The minister said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was in constant contact with the Pakistani ambassador in Kyrgyzstan and took immediate action to address the students’ concerns.“The government is committed to ensuring the safety and education of Pakistani students, with plans to send them back once the situation stabilises so they can complete their degrees,” he added.
He emphasised that, following the premier’s special directive, ministers were present at airports to welcome the returning students, ensuring they did not feel alone.Tarar called for responsible handling of the situation. He mentioned that a special flight was scheduled to bring back the injured students.
Earlier, he greeted the arriving students with flowers and reassured their families that the government would prioritise resolving their issues. In conversation with students and their families, the minister reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns promptly and efficiently.