Pakistan plans 2nd phase of repatriating Afghans

PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): Pakistan is set to launch the second phase of the repatriation of Afghan refugees in the near future.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi made the announcement at a meeting with a UN delegation, led by Special Representative for Afghanistan Indrika Ratwatte, in Islamabad on Wednesday.

Last year, Pakistan initiated phase one of the refugee deportation campaign, drawing denunciation from the interim government in Kabul and the global fraternity.

Naqvi underlined the need for the role of the UN and the international community in the rehabilitation of Afghan refugees.

The interior minister affirmed Pakistan’s desire for lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan. He insisted Islamabad was providing all possible support in this regard.

No action was being taken against the Afghans holding legal documents, the minister assured the UN team.

The UN representative commended Pakistan’s role in supporting Afghan refugees and Doha dialogue. He said the world body was closely working with the Afghan government for the permanent rehabilitation of refugees.

Meanwhile, Dawn quoted an official as saying the refugees with Afghan Citizen Cards (ACCs) would be repatriated in the second phase of the drive to expel aliens.

The UN refugee agency estimates there are 2.18 million documented Afghan refugees living in Pakistan.

Phase three of the repatriation drive is expected to target those with UNHCR-issued Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, according to the newspaper.

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