Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, Ishak Dar, held a press conference today in Lahore addressing the recent unfortunate incident in Bishkek. He expressed regret over the incident and emphasized the government's firm support for the victims during this difficult time, as reported by Media Today.
Ishak Dar assured that the medical treatment of the injured Pakistani students is a top priority. He confirmed the safety of all students and stated that the incident was a result of misunderstanding fueled by false information spread on social media for political purposes.
"The incident in Bishkek was a result of misunderstanding, affecting students of various nationalities including Pakistanis, Indians, Bangladeshis, and Arabs. The dissemination of false messages on social media is appalling," said Ishak Dar. He rejected the accusations of attacking students as unfounded, citing confirmation from the Kyrgyzstan government.
The official highlighted the immediate response of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stating that "an emergency response unit was activated right after the incident, and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif along with the entire government machinery is closely monitoring the situation."
The Pakistani government representative noted that despite the Kyrgyz ambassador being on leave, his deputy provided detailed information on Saturday, ensuring full communication between the governments.
Ishak Dar mentioned that six Pakistani students were among the sixteen injured foreign students currently receiving treatment in three different hospitals. He emphasized the strong fraternal relations with Kyrgyzstan, stating that the incident was not directed against Pakistan.
"The situation is normal now, Kyrgyz students are visiting the injured as a gesture of goodwill. As a precautionary measure, security measures have been intensified in Kyrgyzstan," he added.
Due to the incident, a planned visit was canceled at the request of the Kyrgyzstan government. Two officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have been dispatched to Bishkek, maintaining constant contact with the students and their parents through the embassy.
"So far, we have facilitated the return of 130 Pakistani students, with over 50 more registered for return today. Additionally, 540 students will return on commercial flights, and a Pakistan Air Force flight has been arranged for the return of students from Bishkek," the publication noted.
Federal Minister for Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan Affairs, Amir Mukam, confirmed that the government continues to liaise with the Kyrgyz authorities post-incident.
"It is crucial to set aside emotions and focus on facts. The education of students in Kyrgyzstan benefits both countries, and the government is providing comprehensive support to the affected individuals," he concluded.
A spontaneous protest against foreigners that began on the evening of May 17 in Bishkek concluded early on May 18. Police managed to negotiate with the participants, reopening Chui Avenue before dispersal. According to the Ministry of Health, 29 people were injured during the protests.
Following the brawl on May 13 at a hostel, which was one of the triggers for the protests, four Egyptian citizens were detained by the police. A criminal case has been initiated under the article "Hooliganism" of the Criminal Code of Kyrgyzstan.
