ISLAMABAD(National Times)- Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Thursday met British High Commissioner Jane Marriott in Islamabad. While appreciating Commonwealth’s close engagement with Pakistan, Ishaq Dar conveyed that he would be unable to attend the forthcoming Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting due to the ongoing regional situation. On regional developments, he emphasized the urgent need for de-escalation and restraint, to ensure peace and security in the Middle East and wider region. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken key measures in response to the evolving regional situation, aiming to assist overseas Pakistanis. According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, efforts have been accelerated to facilitate the return of Pakistani citizens abroad. The ministry’s Crisis Management Unit has been activated and is monitoring the situation around the clock. On the directives of the prime minister, special facilitation desks have been established at Pakistani embassies to assist stranded citizens.

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These desks are providing visa assistance, accommodation, and travel arrangements for Pakistanis affected by the situation. The spokesperson added that special portals, mobile applications, and helplines have also been launched to improve communication and support services. Pakistani embassies remain in continuous contact with host governments to coordinate assistance. With the partial restoration of flight operations, the process of repatriating Pakistani citizens through commercial flights has also begun. The Foreign Office emphasized that the safety and welfare of overseas Pakistanis remain the government’s top priority. Details of emergency contacts and assistance are available on the ministry’s official website and social media platforms.