Junaid Anwar contacts Dar, Somali envoy for safe recovery of Pakistani crew

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has held a telephonic conversation with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and also contacted the Ambassador of Somalia regarding the situation of Pakistani crew members.

The seamen were taken hostage more than a month ago when armed pirates hijacked the MT Honour 25 off the southeastern coast of Somalia on April 21.

There were 11 Pakistanis among the vessel’s crew, who remain in the pirates’ captivity.

The minister stressed the need to expedite efforts for the safe and early recovery of the Pakistani personnel.

He stated that humanitarian efforts were initiated immediately after the incident was reported in April.

Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said that continuous coordination is being maintained with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Somali Embassy.

He added that the Government of Pakistan remains actively engaged in ensuring the safe return of its citizens.