ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) announced on Sunday that 47 Pakistani citizens have been rescued following the capsizing of a boat near Greece, while one individual has been confirmed among the deceased migrants.
Amid ongoing speculation regarding the fatalities, MoFA provided clarification, acknowledging the potential for further casualties as rescue efforts are still underway. “At this moment, we cannot confirm the total number of deceased or missing Pakistani citizens,” the ministry remarked.
According to the coastguard on Saturday, at least five migrants lost their lives when their wooden vessel capsized off the southern Greek island of Gavdos. Witnesses indicated that many others remain unaccounted for as search operations continue.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the Pakistani Embassy in Athens has been in communication with both the Hellenic Coast Guard and the Coast Guard of Chania, who are overseeing the search and rescue operations. “Embassy representatives have traveled to Crete to meet with the rescued Pakistanis and offer any necessary support,” the ministry stated.
Additionally, the ministry confirmed that its Crisis Management Unit (CMU) has been activated to assist Pakistani nationals in Greece.
Pakistani citizens in Greece and their families are encouraged to reach out to the CMU via telephone at 051-9207887 or by email at cmu1@mofa.gov.pk.
Families of the missing individuals are advised to contact the Embassy of Pakistan in Greece to provide relevant information at +30-6943850188.