Islamabad: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has called on the United Nations to assist in the rehabilitation of Afghan refugees during a meeting with UN Special Representative for Afghanistan, Indrika Ratwatte.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the meeting, which took place in Islamabad, highlighted the longstanding issue of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Minister Naqvi emphasized that Pakistan has hosted Afghan refugees for decades and is currently undertaking a phased repatriation of illegal foreigners. He ensured that those with legal documents are not targeted and stressed the importance of legal residency requirements.
Naqvi also discussed the broader context of terrorism, labeling it a global issue, while pointing out that Pakistan has been significantly impacted. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s security forces, police, and civilians in combating terrorism. The Interior Minister accused the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) of conducting terrorist attacks from Afghan soil and urged for these activities to be halted to promote peace and stability in the region.
UN Special Representative Ratwatte acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts in managing Afghan refugees and its role in the Doha dialogue. He reassured that the UN is working with the Afghan government towards the permanent rehabilitation of these refugees and condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan.
The discussion underscored the urgent need for international cooperation in addressing both refugee issues and regional security challenges.