In a series of tweets, FO Spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said that more than 20 Pakistanis were flown from the country to attend the funerals and the travel was facilitated by the FO and the government of New Zealand.
Today, 8 Pakistani Shaheed have been buried in a local graveyard in Christchurch according to Islamic rituals. More than 20 family members, who flew from Pakistan, were able to join. Travel of these family members was facilitated by Foreign office and the NZ govt. @MFATgovtNZ 1/3
— Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) March 22, 2019
More than 5,000 people attended the funeral.
"One remaining Shaheed Syed Areeb Ahmed would be repatriated to Pakistan in next few days. His family is being kept informed," added FO.
Today, 8 Pakistani Shaheed have been buried in a local graveyard in Christchurch according to Islamic rituals. More than 20 family members, who flew from Pakistan, were able to join. Travel of these family members was facilitated by Foreign office and the NZ govt. @MFATgovtNZ 1/3
— Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) March 22, 2019
The spokesperson further elaborated that the country's high commission in the South Pacific nation is continuing to offer assistance to the bereaved families.
The funeral was attended by more than 5000 people, of which there were about 1500 Muslims, who came from all over NZ. One remaining Shaheed Syed Areeb Ahmed would be repatriated to Pakistan in next few days. His family is being kept informed. 2/3 @MFATgovtNZ
— Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) March 22, 2019
On Thursday, Prime Minister Imran Khan called New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and condemned the terrorist attack against two mosques in Christchurch by a right-wing terrorist.
The premier also expressed his admiration for the humane handling of the situation by the New Zealand authorities.
PM Imran appreciated the quick response and the high level of respect shown by Ardern for the Muslim community.
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“Prime Minister Ardern has shown the way to other leaders in the face of rising Islamophobia and global extremism,” the premier said, adding that, he was calling PM Ardern on behalf of the people of Pakistan to thank her for her compassion, leadership and decisions that won her many admirers in Pakistan.
The premier conveyed his condolences on the loss of 50 precious lives.”Pakistan is itself a victim of terrorism and has lost more than 70,000 innocent lives,” PM Imran said, adding that, Pakistan stands by the government and people of New Zealand in this hour of grief.
Prime Minister Arden also said that New Zealand was in shock and informed PM Imran of immediate actions taken after the attack including the banning of all military style semi and automatic guns and assault rifles.
She also acknowledged the sacrifices of Pakistanis in the attack, particularly the bravery and valour of Naeem Rasheed.
PM Ardern assured that New Zealand, while valuing the contribution of the Muslim community, assured them freedom and protections.
The premier also invited PM Ardern to visit Pakistan.
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