Pakistan refuses to lift visa requirement for Afghanistan border crossings

Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected the possibility of visa-free border crossings from Afghanistan, emphasizing that no traveler will be allowed entry without a visa and passport. Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, spokesperson for the ministry, stated in a press conference that Islamabad has not reversed its “one-sided” border policies with Afghanistan. She stressed that “no […]

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Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected the possibility of visa-free border crossings from Afghanistan, emphasizing that no traveler will be allowed entry without a visa and passport.

Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, spokesperson for the ministry, stated in a press conference that Islamabad has not reversed its “one-sided” border policies with Afghanistan. She stressed that “no traveler will be permitted to cross the border without a visa and passport.”

Last week, protesters demonstrated against Pakistan’s decision requiring passports and visas for travel between Chaman and Spin Boldak and other border crossings.

Previously, the Pakistani newspaper Dawn reported that, after months of protests, an agreement was reached allowing traders and workers to cross the Chaman border with identification documents. However, some traders and workers have complained about the border restrictions imposed by the Pakistani government in the Chaman area.

Amid the stringent border controls, Afghan refugees in Pakistan are facing severe hardships. The forced deportations and restricted mobility have exacerbated their already precarious situation, leaving many without access to essential services and support.

Humanitarian organizations have raised alarms about the dire conditions these refugees endure. The ongoing crisis has resulted in increased vulnerability, with many refugees struggling to find safe shelter and basic necessities.

The situation calls for urgent international intervention and support to address the humanitarian needs of Afghan refugees and to ensure their rights and well-being are safeguarded during this challenging period.

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