ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced on Wednesday that Pakistan has facilitated the repatriation of 30 Iranian nationals, including eight fishermen rescued at sea by a British vessel. The development underscores Pakistan’s commitment to humanitarian cooperation with neighboring Iran.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Dar said the group includes eight Iranian fishermen who were rescued by the British vessel MMA Valour after their boat ran aground. The remaining 22 are crew members of the vessel Leonore/Davina, whose release was secured through Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts. Ishaq Dar stated, “We remain in close coordination with the Iranian, US and UK authorities to ensure the safe transit and early return of our Iranian brethren to their homeland. Pakistan remains committed to humanitarian cooperation and to extending every possible assistance to our Iranian brothers.”
The repatriation follows recent maritime incidents in the region. The eight fishermen were rescued after their boat ran aground, while the 22 crew members were interdicted by US authorities. Pakistan’s role as a facilitator highlights its strategic position in mediating between regional and international actors. BBC News notes that Iran and Pakistan have historically maintained close ties, with both countries cooperating on border security and trade.
Separately on Wednesday, Dar held a telephone conversation with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, according to a statement from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two sides discussed recent understandings between the United States and Iran, as well as the upcoming Memorandum of Understanding in Brgenstock, Switzerland, scheduled for Friday. Preparations for the forthcoming Regional Four (R-4) Foreign Ministers meeting later this month were also on the agenda. Al Jazeera reports that regional diplomacy has intensified amid ongoing efforts to stabilize maritime security and de-escalate tensions.
The repatriation is seen as a positive step in Pakistan-Iran relations, which have faced challenges in the past due to border skirmishes and sectarian issues. Dar’s announcement also reflects Pakistan’s broader humanitarian outreach, particularly in assisting neighboring countries in distress. The foreign minister emphasized that Pakistan would continue to extend all possible assistance to Iranian nationals in need.
Source: ARY News