Islamabad (The COW News Digital) Pakistan has confirmed that it is in contact with its allies and international partners regarding the proposed deportation of approximately 150 Afghan nationals from the United States to Kabul through Pakistani territory.
The Foreign Office said discussions were underway to examine all aspects of the matter and develop a mutually acceptable solution involving all concerned parties.
During a weekly briefing, the Foreign Office spokesperson stated that Pakistan was actively engaging with its allies and partners over the proposed arrangement. The spokesperson emphasised that Islamabad was seeking a way forward based on consensus rather than unilateral decisions.
“The matter is being discussed in all its aspects, and a way will be found that is acceptable to all parties,” the spokesperson said, according to the briefing.
The development follows reports that the United States is considering transferring more than 150 Afghan nationals to Afghanistan through Pakistan. The proposed route has drawn attention to the diplomatic and logistical considerations involved in the movement of Afghan citizens between the two countries.
Pakistan has not announced a final decision on the matter. The Foreign Office’s statement indicates that consultations are continuing, with the government maintaining contact with relevant international partners.
The spokesperson also discussed a range of regional and diplomatic developments during the briefing.
Pakistan recently participated in discussions concerning regional security and cooperation. The Foreign Office said a meeting of the R4 framework had taken place, during which participants reviewed the regional situation.
The spokesperson further recalled Pakistan’s condemnation of a terrorist attack on a church in Jordan on October 24. Islamabad also condemned attacks by the Houthis on Makkah and Madinah, reaffirming its position on the protection of religiously significant locations.
The briefing also highlighted preparations for the upcoming Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) Council of Foreign Ministers meeting, scheduled to take place in Islamabad on November 15 and 16.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar chaired a meeting to review arrangements for the ECO gathering. Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs attended the meeting, where regional cooperation and preparations for the event were discussed.
The Foreign Office spokesperson said Ishaq Dar had expressed satisfaction with the preparations and emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation among ECO member states.
Pakistan’s relations with other regional countries were also discussed during the briefing. The spokesperson referred to a meeting with Sri Lanka concerning the Gandhara civilisation and highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to promoting religious tourism.
According to the Foreign Office, Pakistan issued approximately 4,000 visas to Sikh pilgrims during the first six months of the year. The spokesperson also highlighted the Kartarpur Corridor as an important initiative facilitating religious visits.
Pakistan was described as remaining willing to welcome Sikh pilgrims and visitors from other religious communities. The spokesperson further stated that 9,248 visas had been issued to religious pilgrims from India.
Regarding the proposed deportation of Afghan nationals from the United States, Pakistan’s position remains focused on continued consultation and finding an arrangement acceptable to all stakeholders.
The Foreign Office’s latest remarks indicate that diplomatic discussions are ongoing. Further details regarding the proposed transfer, including the final route and arrangements, are expected to emerge as consultations progress.
