Pakistan has alerted the U.S. of potential deportation for Afghan refugees if resettlement deadlines are not met following the suspension of the Afghan refugee program by President Trump. Amid concerns over slow relocation processes, Pakistan is tightening its policy towards Afghan refugees and has committed to repatriation by 2025, leaving the door open for discussions with the U.S.
Pakistan has formally informed the United States of its intention to deport all Afghan nationals awaiting resettlement in the U.S. if the predetermined relocation deadline is not adhered to or if their applications are denied. This communication was made through diplomatic channels following President Donald Trump’s executive order that suspended the Afghan refugee settlement program for 90 days.
A significant number of Afghans, who assisted U.S. and allied forces during operations against the Taliban, have sought refuge in Pakistan. They are currently under a temporary stay arrangement in the country until they can depart for the United States or other designated destinations. Pakistan initially agreed to this arrangement at the request of the U.S. and its allies.
Under the previous U.S. administration, a commitment was made to relocate eligible Afghan nationals holding special immigration visas by September 2025. However, the current administration has implemented a restrictive immigration policy, raising concerns in Pakistan regarding the feasibility of meeting this timeline for Afghan resettlement.
Pakistan has expressed its apprehensions, indicating that the prospect of Afghan nationals returning to the U.S. appears increasingly uncertain. Consequently, the Pakistani government has communicated its position that it will not permit these Afghans to remain in the country beyond the 2025 deadline.
While the exact number of Afghans stranded in Pakistan remains undisclosed, estimates suggest it may range from 15,000 to 25,000. In a recent interview, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated, “If any refugee who was undertaken to be taken by another country after due process – no matter the timeline – if it does not happen and the country refuses, then for us, that will be an illegal immigrant in Pakistan, and we might be forced to send such a refugee back to their original country, which is Afghanistan.”
Although Pakistan has expressed a firm stance regarding the eviction of Afghan refugees, it remains open to negotiations with the U.S. to address the evolving situation. The Pakistani government is reinforcing its policy towards Afghan refugees and aims to ensure the repatriation of all Afghans residing in the country, regardless of their legal status. This initiative, which began targeting undocumented Afghans, is now set to expand to all Afghan nationals due to deteriorating relations with the Taliban regime.
In summary, Pakistan has communicated its plans to deport Afghan refugees awaiting resettlement in the U.S. unless relocation efforts are expedited. The country is concerned about rising numbers of undocumented Afghan nationals and aims for a comprehensive repatriation strategy amidst its strained relations with the Taliban. Pakistan remains receptive to dialogue with the U.S. to alleviate the situation.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
