Pakistan allows export of 150 falcons to UAE despite hunting ban
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Though the country has placed a complete ban on the hunting of such rare birds but every year special licenses are issued to invite Arab dignitaries to hunt these migratory birds.
Pakistan has permitted an export of 150 falcons to the United Arab Emirates despite the ban on hunting of rare and migratory birds; Pakistani media reported.
According to local media reports, falcons are being exported to UAE's Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum.
“The esteemed Embassy may export 150 falcons from Pakistan to UAE, for personal use of His Highness Sheikh Muhammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum,” the letter sent to UAE embassy dated September 27 stated.
The letter further said that the falcons can be exported from Karachi airport.
Pakistan has completely banned the hunting of the endangered birds. Prime Minister Imran Khan has also banned the hunting of falcons in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Hunting migratory birds including Houbara -- another vulnerable species in Pakistan -- and falcons is the hobby of Arab princes. Every year falcons flock to Pakistan along Sindh's coastal belt and the desert area in summers to avoid winter in Siberia. With this, the federal government invites Arab dignitaries to hunt these birds as a sport every year.
Though the country has placed a complete ban on the hunting of such rare birds but, every year special licenses are issued to invite Arab dignitaries to hunt these migratory birds.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Peoples Party leader Faisal Karim Kundi said the move is ''illegal''.
"Will these 150 falcons be bought from hunters and smugglers?" he asked while criticising the government over permission to export.