ISLAMABAD, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar said Friday he has spoken with Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan to seek support in facilitating the welfare and repatriation of Pakistani and Iranian seafarers near Singaporean waters.
In a statement shared on social media, Dar said he requested Singapore's assistance for 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian crew members aboard vessels seized by U.S. authorities and currently located near Singapore.
He appreciated Singapore's cooperation and support, noting that Pakistan is working closely with relevant authorities, including the United States, to ensure the safety and early return of its nationals.
Dar added that he also held a separate conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, with both sides maintaining close coordination on the issue. He said Pakistan is ready to facilitate the safe repatriation of Iranian nationals via its territory. ■