Islamabad (TDI): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Monday announced the successful repatriation of eight Iranian fishermen who were rescued at sea after their vessel ran aground, describing the operation as a reflection of Pakistan’s commitment to humanitarian cooperation and regional goodwill.
In a statement posted on X, Dar said the fishermen departed Karachi for Iran on Monday morning after all necessary arrangements for their transit and return had been completed.
The fishermen had been rescued by the British vessel “MMA Valour” after their boat encountered difficulties at sea. Pakistani authorities subsequently coordinated efforts to facilitate their safe return home.
“Glad to share that the eight Iranian fishermen rescued at sea by the British vessel MMA Valour after their boat ran aground have been successfully repatriated and departed from Karachi for Iran this morning,” Dar said.
Read More: Pakistan Facilitates Repatriation of 30 Iranian Fishermen and Sailors: Dar
The foreign minister noted that Pakistan’s Foreign Office and other relevant authorities worked closely with Iranian and British officials throughout the process to ensure the fishermen’s welfare and timely repatriation.
He thanked the Iranian government for its confidence in Pakistan’s handling of the matter and acknowledged the cooperation of all stakeholders involved in the operation.
“We appreciate the trust reposed in Pakistan by Iran and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in handling the matter for their nationals, and the cooperation of all stakeholders in making their safe return possible,” he added.
A day earlier, the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) had announced the completion of a coordinated humanitarian assistance and repatriation operation for the eight Iranian nationals rescued by MMA Valour.
According to the PMSA, reception arrangements, documentation, medical screening and repatriation procedures were carried out under its lead coordination. Representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan Navy, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the Iranian Consulate in Karachi and other relevant stakeholders participated in the process.
Read More: India Coerced Pakistani Fisherman into Espionage: Tarar
The latest operation follows a similar effort in May, when Pakistan facilitated the repatriation of 11 Pakistani nationals and 20 Iranian citizens who had been aboard vessels seized by the United States in international waters.
Dar had then reaffirmed that the welfare and safety of Pakistanis abroad, particularly those facing difficult circumstances, remained a top priority for the government.
