In a firm directive on Afghan repatriation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered federal and provincial authorities to take coordinated action for the quick and orderly return of Afghan nationals residing illegally in Pakistan. The premier stressed compassion, security, and discipline in managing the process, ensuring that women, children, the elderly, and minorities are treated with dignity.
PM Calls for United National Effort
Chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad on Friday, Shehbaz Sharif urged all provincial governments, along with federal and local institutions, to cooperate fully in repatriating Afghan refugees. He emphasized that the operation must be efficient and humane, reflecting Pakistan’s values and commitment to regional stability.
The Prime Minister reminded the attendees that Pakistan had long carried the burden of hosting millions of Afghan refugees. He noted that while the nation had stood by Afghanistan for decades, the question now being raised by citizens is how much longer Pakistan can continue to bear this strain.
Pakistan’s Decades of Sacrifice
Shehbaz Sharif recalled that Pakistan had endured tremendous losses—both human and financial—due to instability linked to Afghanistan. He stated that Pakistan sacrificed thousands of lives and billions of dollars in the fight against terrorism, much of which stemmed from cross-border militancy.
He underscored that the people of Pakistan, who suffered deeply during the war on terror, deserve relief. “Our nation has shown unmatched generosity, but our patience must now be balanced with responsibility and national security,” he remarked.
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Concerns Over Terror Attacks from Afghan Soil
The Prime Minister expressed serious concern over terrorist activities originating from Afghan territory. He said Afghan nationals have been found involved in several attacks inside Pakistan. These incidents, he warned, pose a direct threat to peace and stability.
Shehbaz Sharif explained that the government has made consistent diplomatic efforts to prevent such cross-border aggression. Senior officials, including the Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and Defense Minister, have visited Kabul multiple times to urge the interim Afghan government to stop militants from using Afghan soil against Pakistan.
Strong Response to Border Aggression
The Prime Minister also condemned Afghanistan’s recent aggression along the border and its alleged support for militant infiltration. He praised Pakistan’s armed forces for their swift and decisive response under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
“The nation stands proud of its defenders,” Shehbaz Sharif said, applauding the army’s professionalism and strength. He reminded the forum that during previous confrontations, including those with India, Pakistan’s military proved its ability to safeguard national integrity.
Coordination Among Provinces and the Federation
The meeting included key leaders, such as Field Marshal Asim Munir, federal ministers, the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and chief ministers from Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was represented by Muzammil Aslam.
Shehbaz Sharif welcomed all attendees and reaffirmed his government’s full cooperation with provincial administrations. He specifically acknowledged his recent discussion with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister, assuring that the federal government stands firmly with KP in all efforts to improve the welfare and security of its people.
Progress and Updates on Repatriation
Officials briefed the meeting that around 1.5 million Afghan nationals have already returned to their country. The repatriation process, they said, is being accelerated, and no further extensions will be granted to those living illegally. Only Afghans with valid visas will be permitted to remain in Pakistan.
Authorities are also expanding exit points along the Afghan border to manage the increased flow of returning refugees. “The goal is to ensure a smooth and swift process while maintaining law and order,” one official said.
It was emphasized that providing shelter or accommodation to undocumented Afghans—whether in homes, hotels, or guest houses—constitutes a criminal offense. Law enforcement agencies are identifying individuals and organizations involved in such violations.
Public Cooperation and Awareness
The government plans to involve the public in this process to ensure transparency and efficiency. Citizens are being urged not to shelter illegal migrants and to report violations to authorities. Officials stated that community cooperation is crucial to achieving the national goal of a secure and lawful repatriation program.
Public awareness campaigns are being launched to inform citizens about the legal implications of harboring undocumented foreigners. The PM’s directive also called for the protection of vulnerable groups during repatriation, ensuring no abuse or mistreatment occurs.
Recognition of Government Efforts
Leaders from across Pakistan, including the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and the chief ministers of all provinces, appreciated the federal government’s strong diplomatic efforts. They commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for their leadership in addressing the challenges of Afghan repatriation while safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty.
At the end of the session, the participants agreed that all recommendations discussed must be implemented without delay. The unified stance reflected the government’s determination to carry out the repatriation process effectively, lawfully, and with humanity at its core.
Through these decisive steps, Pakistan aims to restore border security, reduce the burden on national resources, and reinforce its commitment to regional peace—all while ensuring that the Afghan repatriation process is handled with fairness and compassion.
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