The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) confirmed on Sunday that 21 Pakistani nationals were among the survivors of a migrant boat that capsised off the Moroccan coast while en route to Spain.
The tragedy involved a vessel carrying 86 migrants, including 66 Pakistanis, which departed Mauritania on 2 January.
According to Moroccan authorities, 36 individuals were rescued on Wednesday near Dakhla, Morocco.
A minority rights organisation, Walking Borders, had reported that the boat carried passengers of various nationalities, with Pakistanis forming a significant proportion.
The foreign office issued a statement confirming, “Based on verified information, twenty-one Pakistani nationals have been identified among the survivors of a maritime incident near Dakhla, Morocco.”
It further noted that the embassy in Rabat had mobilised immediate assistance for those affected.
Essential provisions, including food, water, medicine, and clothing, were arranged for the survivors through Pakistan's diplomatic mission in Rabat.
The MoFA stated, “Local authorities in Dakhla are providing shelter and medical care in response to Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach.”
Reiterating its commitment to the welfare of citizens abroad, the Foreign Office remarked, “The government remains in close coordination with relevant authorities in Morocco to ensure comprehensive support for our affected citizens and finalise repatriation procedures.”
It emphasised its continued efforts to safeguard the well-being of overseas Pakistanis and expressed resolve to monitor the situation vigilantly.
