ISLAMABAD - Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Somalia's Foreign Minister Abdisalam Ali on Tuesday to discuss ongoing efforts for the release of Pakistani nationals taken hostage aboard the vessel MT Honour 25.
Diplomatic Engagement for Hostage Release
The Foreign Office Spokesperson stated that Pakistan has been actively engaging with Somali authorities since the hijacking of the vessel off the Somali coast in April. During the call, Deputy Prime Minister Dar expressed Pakistan's grave concern over the situation and emphasized the critical importance of ensuring the well-being of the hostages, securing their early release, and facilitating their safe repatriation.
Somali Assurance and Coordination
Foreign Minister Abdisalam Ali assured his Pakistani counterpart of the Somali government's continued and sincere efforts to secure the hostages' release at the earliest possible opportunity. Both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination until the matter is fully resolved.
The development comes as part of Pakistan's persistent diplomatic efforts to address the hijacking incident. The MT Honour 25 was seized in April, leading to the captivity of several Pakistani crew members. Islamabad has been in regular contact with Somali authorities to expedite the release process.
Separately, PML-N leader Saad Rafique rejected claims of the party's defeat in the Gilgit-Baltistan elections, dismissing suggestions of a rout. He maintained that the party's performance remained strong despite the electoral outcome.
