Lahore: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar restated the government’s unwavering policy and adherence to relevant laws regarding the repatriation of illegal aliens and foreigners from Pakistan as the October 31 deadline for the process looms closer.
During a special session with students at Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), Prime Minister Kakar emphasized that this policy is not exclusive to undocumented Afghan nationals but extends to all illegal foreigners residing in Pakistan.
Prime Minister Kakar acknowledged Pakistan’s significant humanitarian efforts, noting that the country had hosted over 4 million Afghan refugees for four decades despite not being a signatory to the Geneva Convention. He further revealed that more than 1 million foreigners were categorized as illegal residents in Pakistan due to a lack of proper documentation. These individuals are being encouraged to return to their native countries. However, those who wish to return with the necessary legal documentation and valid visas will face no restrictions.
Addressing concerns about the dignity and safety of repatriated women and children, Prime Minister Kakar stressed the government’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable groups. He drew a parallel with humanitarian efforts in the Mediterranean Sea involving immigrant boats.
Turning to security matters, Prime Minister Kakar acknowledged the involvement of certain groups in recent terrorist incidents. He specifically referred to a suicide attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where DNA tests identified the suicide bomber as an Afghan national. He underlined that not all Afghans should be labeled as terrorists, but certain groups engage in illegal activities. Protecting the lives of citizens remains the government’s primary responsibility and a constitutional obligation.
