Islamabad, March 10, 2026: The Embassy of Romania in Islamabad, in coordination with Pakistani authorities, successfully carried out a complex operation to evacuate and repatriate five Romanian citizens who were stranded in the mountainous region of northern Pakistan.
According to a statement issued by the embassy, the diplomatic mission received information that the Romanian nationals were located in the remote Usho Valley, situated in the rugged Karakoram Mountains. The area includes peaks rising above 7,000 metres and is currently considered sensitive from a security perspective.
Officials said that in light of recent regional developments and the deteriorating security situation—linked to tensions in the Middle East as well as security challenges along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border—the immediate evacuation and safe return of the citizens became a priority.
The five Romanian nationals had entered Pakistan on February 24 and recently contacted the Romanian Embassy in Islamabad requesting assistance for evacuation from the area and repatriation. Prior to their request, the diplomatic mission was unaware of their presence in the remote valley.
With the cooperation of the local administration of Gilgit-Baltistan, local police and representatives of the Pakistan Army, authorities were able to locate the individuals and transport them safely along the route from Usho Valley to Gilgit and onward to Islamabad. The operation involved complex logistical and security arrangements and lasted more than 48 hours.
Following their safe arrival in Islamabad, the five Romanian citizens were placed on a flight to Istanbul and are currently continuing their journey to Cluj-Napoca in Romania.
Speaking on the occasion, Romanian Ambassador Dan Stenescu thanked the Pakistani authorities for their cooperation.
“I would like to thank the local authorities, police, and the Pakistani Army for their prompt and professional cooperation and excellent coordination with the Romanian citizens and the Embassy of Romania in this situation,” he said.
The ambassador also expressed appreciation for the efforts of the consular team at the Romanian diplomatic mission for their responsible and professional handling of the evacuation operation.
