Afghan officials are seeking a joint mechanism with Pakistan for the gradual repatriation of refugees, emphasizing the need to avoid forced deportations. They reaffirmed their commitment to assisting returning refugees and maintaining dignity during the repatriation process, while ongoing monitoring and facilities have been set up to facilitate returnees at the border.

Recent statements by Afghan officials emphasize the need for a collaborative approach with Pakistan for the gradual repatriation of refugees. They underlined the importance of avoiding forced deportation, which is seen as detrimental to both nations. The Afghan interior ministry asserts that all illegal foreigners are advised to depart voluntarily by March 31, 2025, after which deportations will commence on April 1, 2025.

Mufti Abdul Mutalib Haqqani, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation, confirmed that repatriating refugees aligns with Afghanistan’s official policy. He stressed the necessity for a joint mechanism with Pakistan to ensure that repatriations occur in a dignified manner. He stated, “But if Pakistan unilaterally sends refugees, we are fully prepared to receive them.” Haqqani stated that ongoing discussions with Pakistani officials focus on preventing forced deportations, as they contradict international laws and Islamic principles.

Haqqani reiterated that both nations should cooperate on refugee repatriation to allow the return of refugees in smaller clusters, thus ensuring their dignity. He mentioned that Iran has also expressed willingness to collaborate with Afghanistan in creating a joint mechanism for repatriation. Additionally, a commission has been established to protect refugees, pledging land allocations and job opportunities for skilled individuals returning to Afghanistan.

The repatriation process is reportedly ongoing, with Afghan officials indicating that returnees from Pakistan have been welcomed in Torkham and are receiving necessary assistance. Siddiqullah Qureshi, from the Nangarhar provincial information department, noted that a total of 325 refugees returned via Torkham recently, encompassing multiple families and individuals. A high-ranking provincial delegation visited Torkham to oversee the repatriation efforts and improve logistical coordination.

On the Pakistani side, facilities have been set up for the repatriation of Afghan Citizenship Card (ACC) holders at a camp in Landi Kotal. Officials confirmed that numerous Afghan cases were processed for repatriation at this facility on Sunday, with a total of 850 Afghans being addressed. A senior Khyber district official stated that since April 1, approximately 11,272 Afghans have been repatriated, while around 3,000 have returned through Torkham. Notably, Pakistan commenced deportations on November 1, following earlier announcements, despite requests from Afghan Taliban leaders.

Pakistan currently hosts an estimated 1.52 million registered Afghan refugees and asylum-seekers, alongside approximately 800,000 Afghan citizenship holders and others without official recognition, according to UNHCR representative Philippa Candler.

In conclusion, Afghan officials are advocating for a carefully managed repatriation process for refugees in collaboration with Pakistan, underscoring the adverse implications of forced deportations. The establishment of a joint mechanism is deemed essential for ensuring the dignified return of refugees. Initiatives are in place to assist those returning, including land provisions and job opportunities, while ongoing discussions with Pakistan aim to streamline the repatriation efforts.

Original Source: www.dawn.com

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