France asked citizens and diplomatic staff to temporarily leave Pakistan and after violent protests by a religious group.
The French embassy in Pakistan advised all French nationals and companies to temporarily leave the country after Tehrik-e-Labbaik Pakistan – banned yesterday – accused French President Emmanuel Macron of committing “blasphemy” and carried out countrywide protests.
French embassy’s press attaché Veronique Wagner confirmed the development saying the embassy will remain open with ‘limited’ staff. “The French citizens have been asked to leave Pakistan if possible. There is a security threat,” she said.
The French embassy in Pakistan warned of “serious threats to French interests in Pakistan,” saying protests were increasing nationwide. Two police officers died this week in renewed clashes with protesters.
