Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: More than 10,000 stranded Pakistanis are still moving from pillar to post to get released from the crisis they are facing in Saudi Arabia, as so far no government functionary has paid visit to address their grievances.

While, India has handled the matter in a befitting manner as it send State Minister for External Affairs to help resolve the problems being faced by Indian affectees on this count.

When contacted by Daily Times Spokesperson of Foreign Office, Nafees Zakaria said that the King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz has directed companies to settle their matters. “Our Ambassador has met the Saudi FM and Saudi Minister for Manpower and was assured full cooperation. Pakistan embassy has provided food on various occasions to Pakistanis in the companies’ various camps. Ambassador visited every camp personally to express support. Our embassy officials have been visiting these camps regularly since May this year and earlier” he added.

He said that those who were receiving 200 riyals per month for food from the companies are being paid that amount by the Embassy.

Spokesperson said that firstly, much before media reports appeared on Saudi assurances to India for its workers, Saudis at ministerial level has assured all facilitation to affected Pakistani employees. They said those who want to stay for receiving claims can stay even if their stay permits have expired. Saudis also assured that no affected Pakistani would be asked to leave before the matter is settled. They expressed their no objection in case affected employees get ‘Naqal kafala’ and find job elsewhere. They impressed upon the companies to settle dues immediately.

He said secondly, the policy of any country never varies on the basis of nationality. Whatever facility is offered to a country’s employees, same is offered to the employees of other countries. Besides Pakistan, there are nationals of many countries including some Saudi nationals, he added.

When attention of Spokesperson was drawn towards planned visit of Federal Minister for Overseas, Saddaruddin Shah Rashdi to Saudi Arabia and his visa issue, “I am not aware of it. It may be under process or consideration” he responded.