WASHINGTON, Jan 29: All the US embassy and consulate personnel — and their family members — posted in Pakistan had been authorised to return though on-going events in the region require that all Americans in, or travelling through, Pakistan closely consider the implications for their security and safety, an announcement from the US State Department says.

The State Department said: “While the Government of Pakistan has expressed its full support for the international campaign against terrorism, some public sympathy and support for the Taliban and Al Qaeda still exists in Pakistan. The presence of indigenous sectarian and militant groups in Pakistan requires that all Americans in or travelling through Pakistan take appropriate security measures. Events in the Middle East also increase the possibility of violence.”

The Department advised Americans who were residing in Pakistan or planning to visit the country, to “exercise maximum caution and take prudent measures.” The measures recommended include: maintaining a strong security posture by being aware of their surroundings, avoiding crowds and demonstrations, keeping a low-profile, varying times and routes and contacting the nearest US embassy or consulate in case of any change in the local security situation.

It also reminded Americans that the US consulates in Peshawar, Lahore and Karachi remained open for citizens services but not visa services. —APP