No talks with groups involved in terrorism, civilian killings: Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The spokesperson for the Foreign Office has stated that Pakistan will not engage in talks with any group involved in terrorism and the killing of civilians.

During a media briefing, Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch emphasised that Pakistan does not recognise dual citizenship of Afghan citizens.

She mentioned that Pakistan is collaborating with countries like Germany, Canada, and Australia to facilitate the transfer of Afghan refugees.

She said that 9,000 Afghans, who came to Pakistan after the establishment of the Afghan interim government, have been relocated to Germany, 6,000 to Australia, and 1,127 to the United States. These Afghans have been issued POR (proof of registration) cards, she said.

Baloch noted that the first phase of repatriating Afghan refugees is nearing completion. The second phase, which involves deporting other illegally residing foreigners, including Afghans, will commence under the directives of the government of Pakistan, the spokesperson said.

Earlier, Pakistan extended the stay of 1.45 million registered Afghan refugees by one year. The decision was taken at a federal cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The federal cabinet approved the extension of registration cards for 1.45 million Afghan refugees whose cards expired on June 30, 2024. The stay extension will now last until June 30, 2025.

She added that Pakistan and the United States are working together in various fields to further strengthen their relations, and the relationship between Pakistan and Russia is also moving in a positive direction.

Baloch said that India continues to hurl accusations to divert attention from the Kashmir issue.

Web Desk