ISLAMABAD — In a decisive move reflecting growing security concerns, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Pakistan can no longer shoulder the burden of hosting undocumented Afghan refugees, ordering their immediate repatriation without further extensions.
Chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad, the Prime Minister emphasized that only Afghan nationals holding valid visas will be permitted to remain in the country. The meeting was attended by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, federal ministers, provincial chief ministers, and senior officials from across Pakistan’s administrative units.
“Pakistan has sacrificed thousands of lives and suffered billions in economic losses in the fight against terrorism,” PM Shehbaz stated, expressing deep concern over recent cross-border attacks originating from Afghan soil.
Despite repeated diplomatic efforts—including multiple visits to Kabul by senior Pakistani officials—the Afghan interim government has failed to curb the use of its territory by terrorist groups targeting Pakistan. The Prime Minister cited growing public frustration over the continued presence of refugees amid escalating violence.
The forum was briefed that over 1.47 million Afghan nationals have already been repatriated as of October 16, under Pakistan’s Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan. Officials confirmed that no further grace period will be granted, and exit points are being expanded to accelerate the process.
PM Shehbaz directed that elderly, women, children, and minorities be treated with dignity during repatriation, and urged public cooperation in implementing the policy. He also praised the professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces, particularly under the leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir, for repelling recent Afghan-origin attacks.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous decision to strictly enforce all recommendations, with provincial governments pledging full support to the federal initiative.
Regional Tensions Escalate
Pakistan and Afghanistan are experiencing heightened tensions, as Islamabad accuses Kabul of harboring terrorist groups like the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). A recent UN Security Council report corroborated Pakistan’s claims, revealing logistical and financial links between the Afghan regime and TTP operatives.
Pakistan has hosted Afghan refugees for over four decades, from the Soviet invasion to the Taliban’s return in 2021. However, the surge in cross-border terror incidents, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, has prompted a shift in policy.
Security sources allege that terror masterminds operating from Afghanistan are receiving support from India, further complicating the regional security landscape.
With the repatriation plan now in full force, Pakistan signals a firm stance on national security, balancing humanitarian concerns with the imperative to protect its borders and citizens.
