Pakistan Responds to Violence Against Students in Kyrgyzstan

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated on Saturday that the government had contacted Kyrgyz authorities to ensure the safety of Pakistani students in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, following incidents of mob violence.

According to Pakistan’s Embassy, foreign students in Bishkek, including Pakistanis, faced violence from locals after a recent altercation involving Egyptian nationals. Medical university hostels and private residences of international students, including Pakistanis, were attacked.

Dar described the reports of these mob attacks on students as “extremely concerning” and directed Pakistan’s ambassador to Kyrgyzstan to provide full support to the affected students.

The embassy has already shared emergency helpline numbers, +996555554476 and +996507567667, and has responded to hundreds of calls from students and their families seeking assistance.

Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, also shared his concern regarding the matter. Taking to Twitter, he wrote, “Deeply concerned over the situation of Pakistani students in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. I have directed Pakistan’s Ambassador to provide all necessary help and assistance. My office is also in tough with the Embassy and constantly monitoring the situation.”

Deeply concerned over the situation of Pakistani students in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. I have directed Pakistan's Ambassador to provide all necessary help and assistance. My office is also in touch with the Embassy and constantly monitoring the situation.
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 18, 2024