Limited testing kits a hurdle in bringing stranded Pakistanis from abroad: Yusuf

• Less number of kits will restrict country's ability to test local residents if all Pakistanis arriving from other countries are tested: Yusuf.
• SAPM says operations of domestic flights will remain suspended, while flights from Islamabad to Gilgit-Baltistan will continue to operate.

(Karachi) Special Assiatant to PM on National Security Division and Strategic Policy Planning Moeed Yusuf has said that the government could not bring all stranded Pakistanis at once due to limited testing kits. He added less number of kits will restrict country's ability to test local residents if all Pakistanis arriving from other countries are tested.

Addressing media briefing on Wednesday, he said  the government is facing a hurdle due to limited number of testing kits in bringing back people from abroad.

"Pakistani citizens stranded in India will be brought back through Wagah Border tomorrow," he pointed out.

Moeed Yusuf said that operations of domestic flights will remain suspended, while flights from Islamabad to Gilgit-Baltistan will continue to operate.

Earlier, Yusuf said the government decided to reopen six airports till April 20 so stranded Pakistanis can return home.

He said more than 2,000 Pakistanis have been repatriated after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. He added the federal government has made arrangements to bring back Pakistanis from abroad.

The special assistant said 35,000 Pakistanis wanted to fly back right away.