Deputy PM Ishaq Dar seeks urgent action as Somali authorities continue talks with pirates holding MT Honour 25 crew.
Image: DAWN
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has urged Somalia to accelerate efforts to secure the safe release of Pakistani seamen held by pirates on the hijacked vessel MT Honour 25.
In a call with Somali Foreign Minister Abdisalam Ali, Dar expressed serious concern over the situation and stressed the need for the hostages’ well-being, early release and safe return.
The vessel was hijacked on April 21 near Somalia’s Puntland region, with 17 crew members on board, including 10 Pakistanis.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Somalia assured continued efforts to secure the hostages’ release at the earliest possible time. Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination until the matter is resolved.
Officials said Somalia is currently engaging with the pirates through the vessel’s owner in ongoing negotiations. The group initially demanded $10 million in ransom, later reducing it to $4 million, but no agreement has been reached yet.
The Somali foreign minister also praised Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and constructive engagement during the crisis.
Separately, Pakistani officials confirmed that efforts for the crew’s safe recovery have been ongoing since April, with continuous coordination between the Foreign Office, Maritime Affairs Ministry and Somali authorities.
Piracy off Somalia’s coast had declined sharply after 2011 due to international naval operations, but recent reports suggest a renewed rise in incidents in the region.
