Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said Afghan nationals are being repatriated from Pakistan in a dignified and respectful manner, with full permission to take their assets along. He also announced major steps to expand Pakistan-Afghanistan trade, including the activation of a track-and-trace transit system by June 30.

Speaking at a press conference in Kabul, Ishaq Dar assured that the repatriation of Afghan nationals is being carried out with sensitivity and respect. “Afghan nationals are being sent back honourably, and they will be allowed to take their belongings and financial assets with them,” he said, adding that any complaints during the process would be dealt with immediately.

Dar emphasized that Pakistan had hosted Afghan citizens with generosity and compassion. “Afghanistan is our second home, just as Pakistan is for Afghans,” he said, reiterating the government’s commitment to a smooth and cooperative repatriation process.

Dar also focused heavily on enhancing trade cooperation between the two countries. He revealed that two logistics companies have been added to facilitate cargo movement and that the Torkham border IT system will be activated soon. These measures are part of a broader plan to streamline trade.

A major highlight was the announcement that the Pak-Afghan Transit Track-and-Trace System will become fully operational by June 30, aiming to boost efficiency and transparency in goods transportation. “The system will benefit both countries,” Dar noted, stating that smoother trade would support economic stability on both sides of the border.

The Deputy Prime Minister underlined the importance of regular contact between business communities of the two countries. “We must facilitate the exchange of trade delegations and work closely to remove bottlenecks,” he said, emphasizing mutual benefit in expanding cross-border commerce.

Dar said both sides had agreed to promote trade, strengthen systems for goods movement, and explore new opportunities in transit cooperation. “We want trade links with Central Asia through Afghanistan, and for that, Afghanistan’s involvement is essential,” he added.

Kabul visit underscores economic and diplomatic engagement

During his visit, Dar met Afghan Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund, Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Salam Hanafi, and Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The meetings centered on trade, security, and the return of Afghan nationals. Afghan leaders were also invited to visit Pakistan.

Before leaving Kabul, Dar expressed gratitude for the Afghan leadership’s hospitality, calling the visit productive and a step forward in bilateral cooperation. “We held open and frank discussions—nothing was hidden,” he concluded.