Islamabad: In a significant meeting today, U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome, met with Federal Minister for States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON) Engr Amir Muqam to discuss ongoing cooperation on counter-terrorism and the repatriation of Afghan refugees. The discussions highlighted both countries’ shared interests and Pakistan’s pivotal role in regional stability and humanitarian efforts.

According to Press Information Department, the talks centered on mutual concerns such as the challenges of terrorism and the complexities surrounding the large population of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Minister Muqam articulated the heavy toll terrorism has taken on Pakistan, citing over 70,000 lives lost and economic damages exceeding $150 billion since 2001. He emphasized the need for international acknowledgment and support, particularly regarding the cross-border terrorist activities from Afghanistan.

Minister Muqam also addressed the long-standing issue of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, underscoring the country’s efforts and the need for more robust support from global partners like the U.S. in facilitating their safe and dignified return. He lauded the U.S. commitment to resettle up to 125,000 refugees in the coming fiscal year, urging further assistance for host communities and measures to ensure stable conditions in Afghanistan for returning refugees.

Ambassador Blome reiterated the U.S.’s dedication to aiding Pakistan’s economic development, with a focus on sectors like textile exports. He acknowledged the profound impacts of terrorism on regions such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, and highlighted the U.S.’s significant contributions to global humanitarian efforts, which include substantial support for Pakistani initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of both nations’ commitment to continued collaboration, aiming to address critical issues like terrorism and refugee repatriation in a manner that benefits not only Pakistan and the U.S. but also contributes to broader regional and global stability.