Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, in view of the high-security alert across the country, has ordered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the immediate repatriation of Pakistani citizens from Iran, directing arrangements for their safe return via Azerbaijan.
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting chaired by the Prime Minister in Lahore on Sunday to review the country’s overall security situation.
Addressing the meeting of high officials, Mr. Sharif directed all relevant federal and provincial institutions to immediately implement comprehensive and effective security protocols in response to the current situation. He emphasized that all institutions should work with seamless cooperation and complete coordination.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister was briefed that all security agencies are on alert and all necessary measures are being taken to protect national security.
Elaborating on the repatriation plan, the Prime Minister directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take all necessary steps and immediately contact the government of Azerbaijan to facilitate the safe return of Pakistanis to their homeland.
Mr. Sharif reiterated that the people and armed forces of Pakistan are ever-ready to protect the country’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He praised the armed forces, stating that they are performing their duties excellently with national spirit under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
The Prime Minister concluded his remarks by paying tribute to the sacrifices of the security forces in the war against terrorism, stating that the entire nation salutes their efforts.
The meeting was attended by key cabinet members including Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, Engineer Amir Muqam. Chief secretaries and inspectors general of police of all four provinces, along with other relevant government officials, were also present.