The government in Somalia has assured Pakistan of cooperation and assistance in getting 11 Pakistani nationals rescued from pirates, it was reported on Thursday, quoting diplomatic sources.
According to these sources, the Somali government has forwarded its assurance to Pakistan in writing after Islamabad formally raised the issue with the Somali authorities.
Pakistan launched efforts for securing the safe return of 11 Pakistani crew members taken hostage after pirates attacked an oil tanker in Gulf of Aden near Somalia.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry had written to the Somali ambassador, urging immediate steps to ensure the safe recovery of the Pakistani crew aboard the vessel Honor 25.
In his letter, the minister expressed deep concern over the safety of the hostages and sought assistance for their safe repatriation. Chaudhry said the government is taking all possible measures to ensure the return of the crew.
Meanwhile, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed receipt of Pakistan’s letter, stating that the situation was being closely monitored. Officials said relevant details regarding the vessel and the Pakistani nationals have been shared with national security institutions.
Somali authorities added that Pakistan would be promptly informed of any new developments regarding the ship and its crew.
The vessel was seized on April 21 by six armed Somali pirates roughly 30 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia. The ship was carrying 17 crew members, including 11 Pakistani nationals — some believed to be from Karachi — along with a captain of Indonesian nationality.
Families of the hostages have expressed deep distress, with some reports also pointing to physical abuse. The pirates are reportedly demanding a ransom of $7 million for the crew’s release.
