Due to "technical issues,” China has announced that it will temporarily close the consular section of its embassy in Pakistan.
The Chinese embassy gave no specific details regarding the nature of the problems or an estimated time frame for the consular section’s reopening.
For the public’s information, the Chinese embassy posted a notice on its official website announcing the temporary closure of the consular section. The announcement stated that the closure would stand until further instructions.
According to the notice, the consular section of the Chinese embassy in Islamabad will be temporarily shut down starting on February 13, 2023, until further notice.
Meanwhile, the Chinese government has also advised its citizens to be extremely cautious while in Pakistan due to the security situation. In a Saturday notice, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ consular department warned their citizens that they may be at risk of high levels of security in the country.
People have been advised to call 051-8496167 if they need assistance in connection with urgent passport and travel document matters. Applicants with other inquiries can email islamabad@csm.mfa.gov.cn.
The Chinese government’s announcement comes a day after the government reiterated its resolve to protect all Pakistani citizens and foreign nationals.
Chairing a meeting in Gwadar on February 12 regarding counter-terrorism and security of foreign nationals in the country, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah directed authorities to take all possible measures to ensure the safety of Pakistani and foreign nationals.
He said that foolproof security will be provided to Chinese nationals working on various projects in Pakistan and any negligence in this regard will not be tolerated.
