Karzai blasts Pakistan’s mistreatment of refugees

KABUL (Pajhwok): Ex-president Hamid Karzai has expressed his concern about the forced deportation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan, slamming the move as an act against human rights and international law.

In a statement from his office, the former president lashed out at Pakistani security forces for coercing refugees, snatching their belongings and documents. Such acts amounted to a violation of their rights, he said.

Karzai added he was grateful to the people on both sides of the Durand Line for supporting the Afghan refugees.

He also called on influential Pakistanis, human rights defenders and relevant international humanitarian organisations to stop the government of that country for harassing the migrants.

Karzai asked Afghans in the country to stand against Pakistan's ongoing treatment of refugees and raise their voices to defend their rights.

He also asked charitable organisations and national businessmen to provide them with all kind of assistance.

Karzai once again called on the Pakistan government to maintain civilised and cooperative relations with Afghanistan.

kk/mud