France recalls 15 diplomats from Pakistan in wake of violent protests

France has recalled 15 diplomats from Pakistan in the wake of violent protests and clashes involving a banned group.

 

The Pakistan government banned the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) under the Anti-Terrorism Act on Thursday after the group organised violent protests across the country for three days and challenged the authorities. At least two policemen were killed in clashes with TLP



supporters.

 

A total of 15 French diplomats, mostly secretaries and aides to department heads, have already left Pakistan or are set to return to Paris over the next few days, Le Figaro newspaper reported yesterday.On Thursday, France advised its nationals and companies in Pakistan to temporarily leave the country because of the violent anti-France protests by TLP in many cities.