The Taliban has urged Pakistan and Iran to adopt a patient approach toward Afghan refugees, advocating for an organized repatriation process due to Afghanistan’s economic difficulties. They have met with diplomats from both countries, emphasizing the importance of bilateral discussions and the rights of returning refugees amid ongoing deportations by both nations.
On Thursday, Afghanistan’s Taliban government urged neighboring countries Pakistan and Iran to exercise patience regarding the return of Afghan refugees, recognizing the significant economic challenges facing Afghanistan. Since the conclusion of the U.S.-led war in August 2021, more than 2.7 million Afghan nationals have been repatriated, with Taliban officials advocating for an organized repatriation process rather than forced deportation.
Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, the Taliban’s acting minister of refugees and repatriation affairs, engaged with diplomats from both Pakistan and Iran in Kabul. Kabir emphasized that host countries should allow a structured process for refugee returns, given the inadequate conditions in Afghanistan. He made a public appeal for understanding and forbearance toward Afghan refugees still in Pakistan and Iran.
Pakistan’s recent initiative to remove foreign nationals, citing security concerns, has led to over 825,000 Afghans departing since late 2023. However, only approximately 40,000 have been formally deported. Pakistan’s multi-stage plan aims to repatriate up to 3 million Afghan citizens, including documented and undocumented migrants, as well as Afghans awaiting relocation to other countries.
Meanwhile, Iran has deported over 1.8 million Afghans between 2022 and 2024, with plans announced to deport up to 2 million more by March 2025. Kabir urged both countries to slow their return initiatives until bilateral agreements are established. Pakistan’s diplomat, Ubaid Ur Rehman Nizamani, reiterated that refugees should not be politicized and that cooperation is needed to resolve related challenges.
Diplomatic efforts continue as Iran’s ambassador, Alireza Bekdali, called for a permanent resolution regarding the status of Afghan migrants and refugees in Iran. Human rights organizations persistently advocate for the protection of Afghan refugees, emphasizing that they should not be forcibly returned to a country facing significant socioeconomic difficulties, where basic rights for women and the general populace are severely restricted.
In conclusion, the Taliban is requesting that Pakistan and Iran adopt a more patient and organized approach to the repatriation of Afghan refugees, given the precarious state of Afghanistan’s economy. The ongoing diplomatic dialogue underscores a commitment to securing the rights of Afghan nationals, while addressing the challenges surrounding their return. Both Pakistan and Iran have significant roles in the future of Afghan refugees, with calls for collaboration that respects their dignity and legal status in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
