ISLAMABAD: FEB 27 (DNA):Federal Minister for Housing and Works, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, received the mortal remains of six Pakistanis on behalf of the Prime Minister of Pakistan. These were among those sixteen people who lost their lives in the tragic boat accident occurred in Libya on February 5.
The bodies were brought to Islamabad Airport this morning through special arrangements. On this occasion, the minister offered prayers for the deceased and expressed his condolences to their families. While addressing the media, the minister said that they share the grief of the bereaved families over this tragic incident. He stated that the Government of Pakistan stands with the grieving families at every possible level.
All necessary arrangements have been made to ensure that the bodies of the deceased are delivered to their loved ones in the best possible manner. He further said that our embassy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation, and other relevant departments have been working tirelessly throughout this process.
While assuring the affected families, the minister said that the rest of the dead bodies will be brought back as soon as possible. Additionally, efforts are underway to repatriate the 37 surviving Pakistanis from Libya. Minister further stated that this is a heartbreaking incident, serving as a lesson about the dangers of attempting to reach Europe through illegal means. He urged young people and their families not to take such perilous routes, which often lead to absolute loss.
He encouraged them to pursue legal avenues for travelling abroad. The Government of Pakistan is running various programs to provide skill development and organized employment opportunities for youth, and they should take advantage of these initiatives. While answering a query, minister said that the government is in continuous contact with Libyan authorities and international bodies to investigate this tragedy and take action against those involved in human trafficking to prevent such incidents in the future.
The minister expressed his heartfelt sympathy for the families of the deceased and prayed to Allah Almighty to grant the departed souls highest ranks in Jannah and give patience to the bereaved families.
:Federal Minister for Housing and Works, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, received the mortal remains of six Pakistanis){kind=link}