BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan (AP) – More than 300 Pakistani students have fled Kyrgyzstan and returned home after a violent mob attacked hostels housing international students in the capital Bishkek, injuring several of them, officials said.
The incident on May 17th sparked fears among the over 11,000 Pakistani students pursuing medical degrees in the Central Asian nation’s affordable colleges. Videos on social media showed a large crowd marching towards student hostels, hurling stones and vandalizing property.
At a news conference Sunday, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated that Kyrgyz authorities assured the situation was under control, though he confirmed “four or five” Pakistani students were injured. He refuted online rumors of any deaths.
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Dar said the government arranged flights to bring back all students wishing to leave, covering expenses, though some students claimed having to pay out-of-pocket.
The violence followed a brawl days earlier between locals and international students, videos of which went viral, fueling tensions.
On May 18th, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif voiced deep concern over the students’ situation, while the Indian government also urged its nationals to remain in contact with their embassy.
While calm appears to have returned to Bishkek, some students are choosing to depart amid lingering fears. Authorities have allowed online classes for a week and announced arrests over the incident.
Pakistani and Indian students are drawn to Kyrgyzstan’s Soviet-era medical colleges for their relatively affordable fees compared to home countries. Over 15,000 Indians also study in Kyrgyzstan currently.
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