Federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi has stated that there is continuous coordination between the federal and provincial governments to facilitate the return of Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders, assuring that the federal government will fully support the provinces in the repatriation process.
A high-level meeting was held under the chairmanship of Mohsin Naqvi to review the arrangements for the return of Afghan citizens, 24NewsHD TV Channel reported on Friday.
Chief Secretaries and Inspector Generals (IGs) briefed the Interior Minister on the steps taken for the repatriation process, confirming that all necessary preparations have been completed.
Addressing the meeting, Mohsin Naqvi emphasised that the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Program (IFRP) has been in progress since November 1, 2023.
In its second phase, Afghan Citizen Card holders have been given a March 31 deadline to leave Pakistan voluntarily. He also instructed officials to ensure humane treatment during the repatriation process.
Earlier, the interior minister was briefed by the secretaries and IGs that Afghan Citizen Card holders have been notified house-to-house about their scheduled departure, and the mapping of all registered Afghan citizens has been completed. Authorities have also set up holding centres with food, medical care, and other essential facilities for those preparing to leave.
During the meeting, a special committee was formed following the suggestions of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, and it was decided that Minister of State Talal Chaudhry will visit provinces to address any issues arising during the repatriation process.
The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, Federal Interior Secretary, Secretary for Kashmir Affairs & SAFRON, Chief Secretaries and IGs of all provinces, DG FIA, IG Islamabad Police, DC Islamabad, National Action Plan (NAP) Coordinator, and representatives from the Foreign Ministry, Law Ministry, and security agencies.
Reporter: Awais Kiyani