FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) Issues Travel Advice For Pakistan Tour

COVID-19 Travel Announcement By FCO

Both countries responded to the COVID-19 pandemic, including travel and border restrictions, so the FCO advised British citizens not to travel internationally. However, it depends on whether there are any countries or regions that can restrict travel without further notice. If you live in the UK and are currently traveling abroad, it is best to return immediately because the trade routes are still available. Many airlines are suspending flights and many airports are closing, which prevents flights from taking off.

The FCO advises British citizens not to make unnecessary international travel at this time. Pakistan’s current recommendations are still valid.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against traveling:

  • Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was formerly a federally-administered tribal area
  • Charsadda, Kohat, Tank, Bannu, Lakki, Dera Ismail Khan, Swat, Buner and Lower Dir in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.
  • Peshawar and the southern provinces of the city, including land travel from Peshawar to Chitral or Chitral to Lower Bass.
  • Baluchistan province, including Quetta City, except the southern coast of Baluchistan.
  • Part of the Karakoram Highway (also known as the Karakoram Highway or KKH) from Mansehra to Chilas, passing through Batagram, Bisham, Dassau and Sazin.
  • Close to the control line
  • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against this:
  • Also, the city of Arando and the road between Mirkhana and Arando in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
  • The southern coast of Baluchistan refers to the southern side (including the N10 highway) and the N10 section of the N10 / N25 junction to the Baluchistan / Sindh border junction (including the port city of Gwadar)
  • Northern Sindh region, including Nawabshah

FCO

Currently, the business options for returning to the UK from Pakistan are very limited. The British government has organized special charter flights from Pakistan to return to British citizens and their immediate family members who normally live in the UK. In addition to the previously announced flights, other flights will depart from Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi from April 30.

The Security Situation In Pakistan

In recent years, after the actions of the Pakistani government and security forces, Pakistan’s security situation has improved significantly. In 2018, the number of visits by British citizens to Pakistan was 484,000. Most visits went smoothly.

After the terrorist attack on Pulwama on February 14, 2019, serious tensions emerged between India and Pakistan, especially across the entire line of control. Some airlines or airports still face restrictions. Before going to the airport to and from Pakistan, you must check with the airline for the latest flight status information.

Protests may occur in Pakistan without warning, and the protest will quickly become violent. You should avoid demonstrations, crowds and public events.

Certain periods of the year may bring greater risks. During sacred times / religious holidays, the possibility of targeted attacks increases, including attacks against Western interests and religious minorities.

Terrorist Attacks

The terrorists are likely to try to launch an attack in Pakistan. There are high risks of terrorism, kidnapping and sectarian violence across the country, including major cities such as Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore and Karachi. Foreigners, especially Westerners, can be directly attacked. You must remain vigilant, avoid large-scale public activities in Pakistan, including political gatherings and religious activities, and take appropriate safety precautions.

FCO

Attacks can become densely populated and insecure, such as markets, shopping centers, hotels, restaurants, airports, public transportation, schools, and educational institutions. You should always be vigilant in these areas and reduce exposure to the most dangerous areas.

Pakistan is located in the main earthquake-stricken area and is still vulnerable to more earthquakes, earthquakes, landslides and floods. Pay attention to earthquake safety measures.

British Consultant in Pakistan

In some areas of Pakistan, the support provided by the consulate is very limited. The FCO-Federal Affairs Bureau is currently providing advice on all travel and other conditions other than basic travel. In some areas of Pakistan, the consulate’s support was very limited, and UNHCR officials applied for travel permits from the Pakistani government. The license cannot be guaranteed. In these areas, even in emergencies, the British High Commission’s ability to provide consular assistance may be limited or delayed. If you are abroad and need emergency assistance from the British government, please contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or High Commission.

FCO

The Foreign Business Risk Service provides British companies operating abroad with information and advice on how to manage safety, economic, political and business risks.

Please obtain complete travel and health insurance before travelling.