The Acting Minister of Refugees and Repatriation, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, held separate meetings with Iran’s Ambassador, Alireza Bikdeli, and Pakistan’s Ambassador, Ubaid-ur-Rehman Nizamani, to discuss issues related to Afghan refugees.
According to a statement from the ministry, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir acknowledged Iran and Pakistan’s long-standing role in hosting millions of Afghan refugees and expressed the interim government’s appreciation. He urged both countries to handle refugee matters with patience and tolerance. “Recently, Pakistan and Iran have intensified their mistreatment of Afghan refugees. We call on the host countries to respect international refugee laws and treat Afghans with humanity and in accordance with Islamic principles,” he stated.
He emphasized that the interim government follows an economy-driven policy focused on regional stability, economic cooperation, and shared opportunities. He reiterated that Afghanistan has no intention of creating problems and instead seeks to strengthen ties with neighboring countries.
Mawlawi Abdul Kabir reaffirmed that while the interim government encourages the voluntary return of Afghan refugees, conditions inside Afghanistan remain inadequate for their full repatriation. He urged host countries to avoid forced deportations and instead implement a structured, gradual process. He stressed that expelling all Afghan refugees from Pakistan by June would be extremely difficult, as they cannot relocate their lives and belongings within such a short timeframe.
He also expressed hope that dialogue would be the preferred approach between the two countries, emphasizing that closing the Torkham border, conflict, and violence are not solutions. He urged all parties to refrain from destructive actions at the border.
According to the ministry’s statement, Pakistan’s ambassador in Kabul assured Mawlawi Abdul Kabir that the interim government’s concerns would be formally conveyed to Pakistani authorities. He acknowledged Pakistan’s deep ties with Afghanistan and expressed a desire to resolve issues through mutual understanding.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Ambassador in Kabul, Alireza Bikdeli, praised the interim government’s leadership for its directive on combating human trafficking, stating that the initiative would strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
