Lebanon agrees to issue visas to stranded Pakistanis in Syria

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reached out to his Lebanese counterpart to request assistance in evacuating Pakistani nationals who are stranded in Syria due to the ongoing crisis, as stated in an official announcement.

In a discussion with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Shehbaz Sharif pointed out that all airports in Syria are currently closed, making it necessary for the evacuation of Pakistanis to occur through Lebanon.

"With all airports in Syria shut down, the only viable evacuation route is through land access via Lebanon," the Prime Minister noted.

Shehbaz underscored the critical nature of the situation, indicating that around 600 Pakistanis are presently in Syria. He urged Lebanon to facilitate the issuance of visas for these citizens to ensure their prompt evacuation.

In reply, Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed gratitude for Pakistan's steadfast support for Lebanon and committed to issuing visas for all Pakistani nationals, irrespective of their number. He assured that Lebanon would extend all possible assistance for the evacuation process.

Prime Minister Shehbaz also recalled Pakistan’s timely support to Lebanon during its past crises, stating, "When Lebanon faced a crisis, Pakistan was the first nation to provide aid."

Following their conversation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif contacted the Pakistani ambassadors in Syria and Lebanon, instructing them to offer all necessary cooperation and support for the evacuation of Pakistanis in Syria.

He also directed them to expedite visa processes and initiate preparations for the evacuation.

A statement released after the call indicated that PM Shehbaz strongly condemned the Israeli aggression against Lebanon and reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering support for Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He welcomed the ceasefire agreement for Lebanon and called for a similar ceasefire in Palestine.

"The entire Pakistani nation stands in solidarity with the people of Lebanon during this challenging period," he emphasized, adding that Pakistan remains committed to supporting Lebanon.