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Pakistan Accelerates Afghan Repatriation With No Extension

Islamabad cites cross-border terrorism to justify expediting returns.

Overview

  • A high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved immediate, dignified repatriation of Afghan nationals with no further extensions.
  • Officials reported that 1,477,592 Afghans had already returned as of October 16 under a phased process.
  • Only Afghan nationals holding valid Pakistani visas may remain, and additional border exit points are being added to speed departures.
  • Authorities warned that sheltering undocumented Afghans, including in guest houses, is a punishable offense and said identification efforts are underway.
  • The plan involves coordinated action by federal and provincial governments alongside the army chief, with instructions to prioritize humane treatment for the elderly, women, children and minorities.