Guidelines issued for Britishers who want to return

Islamabad:The British High Commission has asked British nationals in Pakistan urgently needing to travel home over fears of coronavirus to contact it for consular assistance.

In a statement issued here, British High Commissioner Dr Christian Turner CMG said it was an unprecedented and uncertain time across the world. "The sudden announcement of travel and other restrictions in response to coronavirus has happened at a pace no one predicted. The British High Commission team is focused on providing support to British Nationals in Pakistan; and on providing support to the Government of Pakistan in its response to the pandemic."

The envoy said the UK advised British nationals against non-essential travel globally. He said Pakistan had announced the suspension of all international flights to the country until 4 April although we understand that some airlines might attempt to provide a very limited service out of Pakistan in the next few days.

"I know that the limitation of movement between the UK and Pakistan will cause stress and anxiety for the many people who move regularly between our two countries. The best way to make alternative arrangements for your travel home is by contacting your travel agent or insurance company," he said.

Dr Christian Turner said those in need of urgent consular assistance could also contact the British High Commission on +92 (0)51-2012000, and follow options for consular assistance. "We are working hard to provide you with the information you are seeking, and our priority is to support the most vulnerable," he said.

The envoy asked British citizens to continue to check Foreign Office Travel Advice, www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice, for more advice, and follow @UKinPakistan for regular updates.

He said full UK government guidance on the coronavirus pandemic was available here www.gov.uk/coronavirus. "Most importantly, please do follow local health guidance and other regulations to ensure that you are doing all that you can to keep yourself, your family and others healthy," he also said.