ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has sought clarification from the United States regarding its policy on the resettlement of Afghan refugees in third countries, following Washington’s decision to suspend the process.
Speaking at a weekly press briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stated that Pakistan is awaiting further details before making any decisions on the matter.
Meanwhile, Islamabad has urged the international community to address the issue of US military equipment left behind in Afghanistan, warning that these weapons are being used by terrorists to carry out attacks in Pakistan. However, Pakistan has refrained from fully endorsing US President Donald Trump’s demand for the retrieval of these weapons.
“The question of weapons left behind by the US remains a serious concern for us because they are being used by terrorists for attacks inside Pakistan,” Khan said, emphasizing that Pakistan has raised the issue with American officials.
President Trump has renewed calls to recover the estimated $7 billion worth of military equipment, including firearms, communication devices, and armored vehicles, left in Afghanistan after the 2021 withdrawal. The matter presents significant challenges, as much of the equipment was handed over to Afghan forces before their collapse, falling into Taliban hands. The Taliban, rejecting US demands, have instead requested more advanced weaponry to combat ISIS-K, further complicating the security situation in the region.
Pakistan remains cautious about aligning with Trump’s stance, as analysts speculate Washington might explore military options to retrieve the weapons, a move that could destabilize the region further.
Regarding Afghan refugees, Pakistan reiterated its position that those lacking valid visas or residency status would be considered illegal. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar previously hinted at deporting Afghans no longer eligible for US resettlement. Khan stated that Pakistan's policies on undocumented individuals would guide any actions taken, although he did not provide specific numbers.
Following a crackdown on undocumented foreigners in November 2023, Pakistan has repatriated more than 815,000 individuals.
In other developments, Pakistan welcomed the continuation of the US oversight program for its fleet of F-16 fighter jets, calling it a regular part of bilateral defense cooperation. The Trump administration has released $397 million for the program, which ensures that Pakistan uses the jets primarily for counterterrorism operations and not against India.
This is part of a broader release of $5.3 billion in previously frozen foreign aid, mostly allocated for security and counter-narcotics efforts. A Technical Security Team, composed of US contractors, has been stationed in Pakistan since 2019 to monitor compliance with end-use agreements related to the aircraft.
Khan described Pakistan-US relations as "robust and strong," highlighting that diplomatic engagement between the two nations remains ongoing. “Our desire is to continue this important relationship,” he said, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to working with the US.
However, the spokesperson also cautioned against external interference in Pakistan’s internal affairs. This comes after some Republican Congress members urged US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to intervene in what they described as the “restoration” of democracy in Pakistan. Khan dismissed these concerns, stating, “Pakistan is a democracy,” and emphasizing the principle of non-interference in sovereign matters.
Additionally, Pakistan confirmed the return of eight Pakistani nationals who were staying illegally in the US. Khan stated that Pakistan follows a clear policy of repatriating its citizens once their nationality is verified, and discussions between Islamabad and Washington on the broader repatriation process are ongoing.
