Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi emphasized that no measures will be taken that could jeopardize the lives of the 10 Pakistani crew members currently held hostage on an oil tanker seized by Somali pirates. The vessel, Honour 25, was hijacked on April 21 while navigating near Somalia. In total, 17 crew members are being held captive, including 10 Pakistanis, four Indonesians, one Indian, and one Myanmar national.
All relevant Pakistani institutions, including the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and the Ministry of Interior, are coordinating closely to resolve the crisis. The authorities maintain continuous communication with the ship’s owner and other involved parties. Pakistan’s diplomatic mission in Somalia, along with the ambassador in Djibouti, are closely monitoring developments. A team from the Pakistani embassy recently visited Mogadishu to gather direct information on the situation.
Andrabi noted that the presence of highly dangerous and explosive cargo on board complicates any rescue operation, making it extremely sensitive. Pakistan has urged both the Somali government and the shipowner to ensure the hostages receive essential supplies such as food and drinking water. The government is fully aware of the distress faced by the families of the hostages and has appealed for their patience, assuring that the matter remains a top priority.
In a significant development, the spokesperson also addressed concerns over India’s water projects, highlighting reports that India has invited bids for the Chenab-Uplink Tunnel project, which would divert 1.9 million acre-feet of water annually from the Chenab River to the Beas system. This initiative, along with proposed silt-flushing at the Salal Dam, is viewed as a violation of the Indus Waters Treaty and could grant India excessive control over water flows. Pakistan has criticized India for not formally notifying or consulting it on these plans, warning that such actions threaten Pakistan’s economy, food security, and regional stability. The international community has been urged to pressure India to halt these projects and adhere to the treaty.
Regarding relations with Afghanistan, Andrabi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to resolving issues through dialogue and diplomacy. However, he condemned ongoing attacks on Pakistani citizens and law enforcement personnel originating from Afghan soil, stating that Pakistan’s patience has been tested. He called on Kabul to prevent its territory from being used for terrorism against Pakistan. Measures have been taken to secure border areas, and concerns have been communicated to international partners, including China. Furthermore, regional security and terrorism threats were key topics during the recent strategic dialogue with the European Union.
