Foreign Office (FO) spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan has made it clear that there will be no change in the deadline for the repatriation of Afghan refugees.

During the weekly media briefing, he stated that the issue of terrorist sanctuaries on Afghan soil is crucial, as they are a serious obstacle to Pak-Afghan relations. He also emphasized that Pakistan is actively informing the world about India’s state-sponsored terrorism.

While addressing the media in Islamabad, Shafqat Ali Khan reiterated that the March 31 deadline for the return of Afghan refugees remains unchanged. He highlighted that terrorist hideouts on Afghan territory pose a significant challenge to bilateral relations and assured that Pakistan will continue dialogue until the issue is resolved.

FO spokesperson further stated that Pakistan is raising awareness about Indian state terrorism. He expressed concern over raids on the homes of Hurriyat leaders and welcomed the limited ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, hoping that the truce would continue. He also dismissed the bill proposing sanctions on Pakistan, stating that it reflects the personal views of an individual.

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Shafqat Ali Khan, while addressing the weekly media briefing, stated that the US sanctions on Pakistani companies are inappropriate. However, he welcomed the US decision to designate the TTP as a terrorist organization.

March 31 remains the deadline

Meanwhile, the federal government has decided not to extend the March 31 deadline for Afghan nationals to leave the country.

According to sources, the Ministry of Interior, in a recent meeting, decided to strictly enforce the deadline for the repatriation of Afghan nationals. Instructions have already been issued to expel illegal Afghan residents from Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

On the other hand, Amnesty International has called for the withdrawal of Pakistan’s deportation plan for undocumented foreigners, stating that the March 31 deadline will further increase hardships for Afghan citizens.

According to Amnesty International, Pakistan has expelled 844,499 Afghan nationals between 2023 and 2025.