Pakistan has sought Singapore’s assistance in ensuring the safe return of Pakistani and Iranian sailors aboard vessels currently under the control of US authorities.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Islamabad is actively working for the repatriation of the crew members and has contacted Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan to facilitate the process as the ships approach Singaporean waters.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Ishaq Dar said he also remained in contact with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi regarding the issue. He added that Pakistan was prepared to facilitate the safe transit of Iranian citizens back to Iran through Pakistani territory.
According to the foreign minister, the detained vessels are carrying a total of 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian sailors.
Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts come amid growing concern over the welfare and safe return of the crew members stranded aboard the US-controlled ships.