Islamabad: The Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development convened on Tuesday at the Parliament House in Islamabad to review the ongoing efforts to evacuate stranded Pakistani nationals amid a regional crisis. The meeting, chaired by Syed Rafiullah, MNA, focused on the Government’s response to the situation and examined strategies to enhance mission support, ensure transparent relief arrangements, and coordinate with airlines.
According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided a comprehensive overview of the crisis management efforts. The Crisis Management Unit has been activated, and special facilitation desks, registration portals, and helplines have been established to assist stranded nationals. The Ministry reported that evacuation operations are in progress through multiple land entry points into Pakistan, with cooperation from host governments facilitating visa processes, temporary accommodation, and transit support. Thousands of Pakistanis have been evacuated by land and air.
The Committee highlighted Iran as the most critical area of concern, noting civilian casualties, displacement, and utility disruptions. Gulf missions reported significant Pakistani populations, but evacuee numbers are manageable. The mission in Qatar recorded over 10,000 registrations, with 215 individuals classified as actively stranded. In the United Arab Emirates, 8,500 registrations were reported, with 4,543 Pakistani passengers in transit, and 4,400 have departed via commercial flights.
The Committee acknowledged the efforts of Community Welfare Attaches in providing necessary support such as accommodation and meals. However, members expressed concerns over increased airfare prices and reduced flight capacities, affecting low-income travelers and Umrah pilgrims. The Committee recommended exploring contingency arrangements with airlines to ensure affordable travel options.
The meeting also featured testimony from Ms. Asiya Nasir, Ex MNA, who experienced travel disruptions during the crisis in Qatar. Her account underscored the importance of prompt consular intervention and effective communication. The Committee commended the diplomatic staff and emphasized the need for stronger institutional preparedness for future crises.
In conclusion, the Committee directed the Ministry to develop a comprehensive evacuation framework and standard operating procedures for future emergencies, with a focus on coordination with airlines, host governments, and border authorities. The meeting was attended by several MNAs and senior officers from relevant ministries.