UK diplomats' kids in Pak to return home after security review post-Marriott blast

Islamabad, Oct 2 : In the aftermath of the September 20 devastating bomb blast on hotel Marriott killing 60 people in Islamabad, the British Government has decided to withdraw the children of all its diplomats based in Pakistan after conducting a security review.

Presently, there are a total of 60 children of British diplomats in Pakistan and will soon leave the country.

"Following a review of security in the wake of the attack on the Marriott Hotel, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has decided that the children of UK-based staff at the British High Commission in Islamabad should return to the UK," The Telegraph quoted a Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman as saying.

The security review in Pakistan reflected the growing instability of the country and also the broad views of diplomats.

Officials said that the ruling will be lifted as soon as conditions permit. "The FCO has also offered the opportunity for other dependents, such as spouses, who wish to return to the UK to do so," a statement said.

It added: "A number of other diplomatic missions in Islamabad have recently taken similar steps. The core work of the High Commission will not be affected. The UK is committed to maintaining its strong relationship with Pakistan, especially at this difficult time. The attack on the Marriott Hotel reinforces our shared determination to tackle violent extremism."

ANI