- The Envoy urges the student to complete all formalities before departure.
- Tipu says the embassy is in contact with Iranian border authorities.
- Urges Pakistani citizens in Iran to follow the advice issued by FO.
At least 72 Pakistani students have returned home amid violent protests in different parts of Iran, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Muhammad Mudassir Tipu confirmed on Sunday.
Talk to PK Press Club Newsthe ambassador said: “72 students from Hormozgan University [a leading state university in Bandar Abbas] left for Pakistan today.”
The Pakistan Embassy in Tehran has provided all possible assistance to Pakistan-bound students, he said, adding that it was in touch with Iranian border authorities to ensure smooth and safe return of the students.
Protests in Iran began on December 28 in response to soaring prices, before turning against the leaders who have governed the country since 1979. Tehran has accused the United States and Israel of fomenting unrest.
Iran’s police chief, Ahmad-Reza Radan, said security forces had stepped up efforts to deal with the “rioters.”
Meanwhile, Tipu said Pakistani students of Zanjan University would return home soon.
“All Pakistani citizens in Iran should follow the advice issued by our foreign ministry,” he urged.
The ambassador stressed: “Students wishing to return must complete all formalities before departure.”
Wi-Fi is down in Iran and telephone services are not working properly, he said, advising Pakistani nationals in the country to contact the embassy through landline numbers.
The ambassador also advised those traveling by road to arrive at the border at least four hours before it closes and ensure their passports are properly stamped.
Separately, using his handle X, he wrote: “All Pakistani nationals traveling to Pakistan, from Iran, must ensure that they have a valid visa or exit stamp (Kharooj) in their passport.”
He added that students can ensure they have clearance certificates issued by their university.
“Otherwise, Iranian immigration authorities will not allow them to travel until they complete the required procedures,” he added.
For their safety and security, Pakistani nationals are advised to avoid unnecessary travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran until conditions improve.
Late last week, Pakistan’s foreign ministry had advised Pakistani nationals “currently residing in Iran to exercise extreme caution, remain vigilant, minimize non-essential travel and maintain regular contact with Pakistani missions.”
