Pakistan trying to pressure IEA, alleges: Stanikzai

MAZAR-I-SHARIF (Pajhwok): Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai says Pakistan is trying to mount political and economic pressure on the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) by deporting refugees.

Stanikzai made the remarks at the inaugural ceremony for the second phase of the Qush Tepa canal in northern Balkh province on Wednesday..

He said: “This action is against protocols and agreements signed among Afghanistan, Pakistan and UNHCR.  Afghans can return to their country whenever they want. But they shouldn’t be sent back force. You see, this issue is being used as pressure tactics.”

He urged the international community and the UN to participate in the reconstruction of the war-devastated country.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan permanent representative to UN Nasir Ahmad Faiq, said the Afghan refugees were facing a difficult situation in neighbouring countries. He asked the international community to pay serious attention to the issue.

On Wednesday, the government of Pakistan announced allowing Afghan citizens with legal documents to stay.

Afghan refugees with Proof of Registration (PoR) cards could live temporarily in Pakistan, the government said in a notification.

The refugees with legal documents would not be harassed or arrested, according to the notification, which said they would be given protection.

sa/mud

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