22 Iranian sailors from US-interdicted vessel reach Pakistan: DPM Dar

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar on Friday announced that 22 Iranian crew members of the vessel Lenore/Davina, recently interdicted by US authorities, have arrived in Karachi for their repatriation to Iran.

This development follows an interim peace agreement signed between Tehran and Washington in Switzerland, with Pakistan and Qatar acting as mediators, as both sides agree to restore diplomatic engagement and prepare for technical-level talks to resume next week.

In a post on X, DPM Dar said that arrangements were being finalised in close collaboration with Iranian missions in Pakistan to facilitate their earliest and safe return to their homeland.

Dar said Pakistan remained in close contact with both the US and Iranian authorities throughout the process.

He noted that the coordination helped ensure the safe arrival of the crew members in Karachi following the vessel's interdiction by US authorities.

According to Dar, the group was the fourth batch of Iranian crew members whose repatriation has been facilitated by Pakistan during the past two months.

He added that Pakistan has now assisted in the repatriation of more than 70 Iranian nationals, including the latest group of 22.

Dar expressed gratitude to the Iranian leadership for the trust placed in Pakistan and commended the efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other Pakistani institutions for ensuring the smooth and safe repatriation of the Iranian crew members to their homeland.

Meanwhile, Iran's state news agency Irna said that the crew members were handed over to Iranian diplomats in Karachi and are expected to return to Iran in the coming days.

The Iranian consulate general in Karachi also announced the crew's arrival, saying the 22 sailors "will return to their homeland in the coming days".

Earlier this month, DPM Dar announced that Pakistan was facilitating the repatriation of 30 Iranian nationals through its territory as part of coordinated arrangements with relevant authorities.

The group comprised eight Iranian fishermen rescued at sea by the British vessel MMA Valour after their boat ran aground, as well as 22 Iranian crew members from the vessel Lenore/Davina, whose return was being coordinated through Pakistan, he said at the time.

from Latest Pakistan News - SUCH TV https://ift.tt/oycdCZm