Pakistan is intensifying efforts to secure the release of citizens held hostage by Somali pirates. The issue matters because the captives have spent nearly 50 days in detention. Pakistani nationals, their families, and other crew members remain directly affected.
Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar contacted Somalia’s foreign minister. He said Somalia assured Pakistan of full cooperation in securing the hostages’ safe release. Pakistan has also remained in contact with the cargo vessel’s owner. However, Andrabi acknowledged that progress has been limited due to the situation’s complexity.
According to the Foreign Office, the hostage crisis involves a semi-autonomous tribal region with multiple actors. This has complicated negotiations and slowed efforts to secure a breakthrough. Andrabi said the government continues pursuing every available diplomatic channel. He stressed that the safety and early return of the Pakistani citizens remains a top priority.
Pakistan has also increased diplomatic engagement on the issue. Andrabi said the Somali ambassador in Islamabad was summoned to convey Pakistan’s concerns. The Foreign Office has held inter-ministerial meetings to coordinate a response strategy. He added that the cargo ship carried crew members from several countries. Pakistan has urged Somalia to improve conditions for all hostages and accelerate efforts toward a resolution.
Separately, Andrabi expressed concern over rising tensions in the Middle East and called for restraint. He said Pakistan supports resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. The spokesperson also rejected India’s position on Kashmir, reiterating that it remains an internationally recognised disputed territory. He urged implementation of United Nations resolutions and respect for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.