As the deadline for the expulsion of Afghans staying beyond validity of their visas or requisite documents, US officials underscored the need to protect the rights of Afghan citizens being asked to leave Pakistan. In separate conversations with foreign minister Jaleel Abbas Jilani on October 31, US Ambassador Donald Blome and USAID Administrator urged the need for safe and efficient processing of Afghan citizens eligible for relocation or resettlement in the United States.
The Ambassador highlighted the two countries’ mutual interest in ensuring the safety and security of refugees and asylum seekers, and the importance of putting in place appropriate screening mechanisms so that individuals with legitimate claims of credible fear are not placed in harm’s way.
Later, Samantha Power, Administrator USAID also spoke with Pakistan Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani. They discussed USAID’s work in Pakistan on post-flood recovery, climate change, and broader efforts under the U.S.-Pakistan Green Alliance. They also discussed the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the efforts of the U.S. and other countries to provide life-saving food, water, medical care, and other critical assistance to civilians in need.
Administrator Power noted the importance of protecting Afghan refugees and asylum seekers in Pakistan and discussed with Foreign Minister Jilani how the United States and Pakistan can work together to facilitate the safe, expeditious, and efficient resettlement and relocation of eligible individuals to the United States
