Pakistan, Afghanistan Hold Strategic Talks on Trade and Refugee Repatriation in Islamabad

Pakistan hosted a high-level Afghan delegation in Islamabad on Friday to discuss critical issues including cross-border trade and the structured repatriation of Afghan nationals residing in Pakistan.

The Afghan delegation, led by Acting Minister for Commerce and Industry Haji Nooruddin Azizi, included the Afghan Minister for Refugees and Repatriation, the Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan, and other senior officials. They held productive talks with Pakistan’s Minister of State for Interior, Tallal Chaudhry, and Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha.

During the meeting, both sides explored avenues to streamline trade through improved transit protocols and addressed the repatriation of Afghan nationals in a safe and dignified manner.

“We have always welcomed Afghan brothers and sisters with open hearts,” said Chaudhry. “However, migration management must now follow legal frameworks, ensuring that only documented individuals remain in Pakistan.”

He highlighted the government’s efforts under the “One Document Regime” to regulate residency and ensure transparency. Over 50 transit camps equipped with health and basic facilities have been established to assist repatriation, while complaint cells under the Interior Ministry and provincial authorities are in place to safeguard refugee rights and prevent any misconduct.

Chaudhry further assured that Afghan nationals holding valid Proof of Registration (PoR) cards would continue to be accommodated without any disruption until June 30, 2025.

In a forward-looking announcement, he revealed that Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar would soon lead a delegation to Kabul to further discuss regional cooperation and economic engagement.

The dialogue concluded on a positive note, with both sides pledging to strengthen coordination for peace, prosperity, and mutual regional growth.