Afghanistan Peace Campaign
Baloch also said that the fundamental basis of the UNHCR’s statement should be asked.
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the spokesperson for Pakistan’s foreign ministry, speaking at a press briefing said that Pakistan has not given any indication to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) that the Illegal Foreign Nationals Return Program (IFRP) has been suspended or will not be implemented in the future.
The spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: “Pakistan has not given any indication to the UNHCR that IFRP has been suspended or will no longer be implemented. What is the basis of the statement by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees may be sought from their Spokesperson.”
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch further said that Pakistan has the right to enforce its laws on individuals residing in the country in violation of its immigration laws.
She said: “Just like any other country, Pakistan has the sovereign right to implement its laws with regards to individuals who are present in Pakistan in violation of our immigration laws. The laws of Pakistan are clear. Those individuals can face fines, they can be imprisoned, and they can be deported, as per their particular case. At this stage, no decision has been taken regarding initiation of the second phase.”
This comes after Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, visited Pakistan on a three-day visit and met with Afghan refugees. During his visit, he also met and talked with Pakistani officials about focusing on sustainable solutions and support for Afghan refugees in Pakistan.
Following the visit of Grandi to Pakistan, UNHCR announced the suspension of the forced deportation process of Afghan citizens from the country.
Earlier, some Pakistani media reported that the country would extend the residency cards of registered Afghan immigrants, or POR cards, until June 30, 2025.