Minister of State for Interior Senator Talal Chaudhry, has declared that the deadline for the repatriation of illegal foreign nationals will not be extended, stating that although Afghans are considered brothers, decisions must be based on ground realities.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Chaudhry emphasized that all foreign nationals are respected, but the government’s decision to repatriate them was taken in light of national security concerns and the growing threat of terrorism.

He explained that the repatriation process began with a formal policy introduced on October 30, 2023. In the first phase, undocumented foreigners were sent back. The second phase started on February 13, 2025, after the federal cabinet decided to repatriate holders of Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC), giving them a deadline of March 31, 2025. The process is now in its third phase, targeting Afghan cardholders.

According to the minister, so far 857,157 undocumented foreigners and ACC holders have been repatriated. He confirmed that the repatriation process is actively ongoing and that there will be no extension in the given timelines.

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Chaudhry underscored that the decision to send Afghan nationals back was made in Pakistan’s national interest. He claimed that investigations have shown a strong connection between terrorism in Pakistan and elements operating from Afghanistan.

Additionally, he noted that 40% of the world’s narcotics originate from Afghanistan and that Afghan nationals have been found involved in various criminal and terrorist activities within Pakistan.

Despite these concerns, he assured that Afghans are being repatriated with dignity. Special transit points have been established across multiple cities, providing all necessary facilities for those being returned.

Chaudhry also mentioned that Pakistan plans to regulate its border system with Afghanistan more strictly and is maintaining direct communication with Afghan authorities to ensure the safe and organized return of Afghan citizens. He emphasized that the responsibility for resettling Afghan nationals lies with the Afghan government, and that all provincial governments in Pakistan have been consulted and taken into confidence regarding the repatriation policy.

The minister concluded by noting that those who have been repatriated can return to Pakistan in the future—legally, through proper visas and passports—and reiterated that while there is great respect for Afghans, Pakistan must act following its national security priorities.