Pakistan Evacuates 130 Students from Kyrgyzstan Amid Mob Violence

Islamabad, May 19, 2024 — In a swift response to escalating violence in Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek, Pakistan has organized a special flight to evacuate 130 Pakistani students stranded in the city. The students are expected to arrive in Pakistan on Sunday night, following a directive from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to ensure their safe return.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif instructed Pakistan’s Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan, Hasan Ali Zaigham, to arrange the special evacuation flight after international students, including Pakistanis, were attacked by local mobs. The violence erupted on May 13 after a brawl between local residents and Egyptian nationals. Reports initially suggested fatalities among Pakistani students, but these were later denied by the Pakistani embassy.

A special flight brought 30 Pakistani students back to Lahore on Saturday, with more flights scheduled to repatriate additional students. PM Shehbaz emphasized that injured students should be prioritized for evacuation and that family members in Kyrgyzstan should also be accommodated. He assured that the Pakistani government would cover all evacuation expenses.

In a conversation with PM Shehbaz, Ambassador Zaigham relayed assurances from Kyrgyz Deputy Foreign Minister Imangaziev Almaz that the situation was under control and no new incidents had occurred. Almaz confirmed enhanced security measures to protect Pakistani and other foreign students.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has activated a Crisis Management Unit, providing emergency contact numbers for Pakistani students and their families. The Pakistani embassy in Bishkek also opened emergency helplines to assist those affected.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur pledged financial support for the students’ return, expressing gratitude to the Kyrgyz government for safeguarding Pakistani nationals. Federal Minister for Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan Affairs, Amir Muqam, and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar were scheduled to visit Bishkek, but their trip was postponed following assurances from Kyrgyz authorities.

The violence in Bishkek began after Egyptian students allegedly confronted local youths over harassment issues. This led to widespread attacks on foreign students, including Pakistanis. Despite increased security, Pakistani students reported ongoing unrest and limited cooperation from their embassy. The riots have prompted local authorities to detain several individuals and negotiate an end to the protests.

Pakistani students in Bishkek have been advised to remain in their hostels and avoid public places due to safety concerns. The Pakistani embassy continues to monitor the situation closely and provide necessary support.

The swift response by the Pakistani government underscores its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad, particularly in crisis situations. The evacuation efforts reflect coordinated international and domestic measures to protect vulnerable populations amidst escalating violence.

Pakistani nationals in Kyrgyzstan and their families can reach the Crisis Management Unit at 051-9203108 and 051-9203094 or via email at cmu1@mofa.gov.pk. The Pakistani embassy in Bishkek is also available for emergency assistance at +996555554476, +996507567667, +996550730550, and +996501140874.

For ongoing updates, follow the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Pakistani embassy in Bishkek on social media platforms.