The Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs on Monday commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) for its swift humanitarian response to the crisis in Gaza, dispatching 17 relief shipments totaling 117 tonnes since October 2023.
The committee, chaired by Senator Irfan-ul-Siddique, received a briefing from MOFA and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) officials detailing the aid provided, which included medical supplies, blankets, shelter, and hygiene products. The supplies were routed through Egypt and Jordan, with the most recent shipment leaving Islamabad on August 5, 2025. An 18th consignment is prepared for dispatch this week, and four more are slated to be sent via Al-Khidmat Foundation.
Senator Sherry Rehman inquired about Pakistan’s efforts concerning the Gaza situation. The Foreign Office spokesperson explained that information access remains challenging due to blockades, relying on sources like the Red Cross, social networks, and humanitarian groups. Pakistan continues its involvement in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), with a special session of foreign ministers scheduled for August 25 to discuss the crisis. The committee received assurances that, contrary to some allegations, no aid convoys have been obstructed, except for an initial shipment in Egypt that encountered logistical issues.
The committee also examined Pakistan’s embassy in Serbia’s efforts to support overseas employment. Senator Humayun Mohmand voiced apprehensions about visa procedures and recruitment advertisements on social media. Officials clarified that Pakistani embassies identify job prospects while the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis manages processes through NAVTTC and the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF). While the Serbian ambassador expressed satisfaction with Pakistani laborers, noting low turnover, concerns were raised about worker accommodations, alleged harassment, and certain companies demanding 1000 Euros. The committee requested representatives from the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and NAVTTC to participate in the next meeting for further deliberation.
MOFA reported that Pakistan currently maintains 124 diplomatic missions (embassies and consulates) across 90 nations. The Secretary mentioned that 79 foreign missions are active in Pakistan. Performance metrics are being revised for embassy personnel, with quarterly reports compiled annually. The committee requested a detailed performance review in future sessions.
On the topic of extradition, MOFA and the Ministry of Interior briefed the committee on procedures under the 1972 Extradition Act. Eighteen individuals have been extradited to Pakistan, while 88 cases are pending. The committee requested a country-wise extradition report from the Ministry of Interior and information on pending National Status Verification applications.
Senator Danesh Kumar’s inquiry about MOFA staffing was deemed incomplete and returned for revision, with the committee requesting the minister’s attendance for subsequent discussions. The committee recognized Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch’s achievements, who received the Sitara-i-Imtiaz on August 14, 2025. Senator Irfan-ul-Siddique praised her contributions to enhancing Pakistan’s diplomatic standing and lauded the ministry’s continuous efforts on the Indo-Pak conflict.