Federal Minister for States, Frontier Regions, Kashmir Affairs, and Gilgit-Baltistan, Engineer Ameer Maqam, addressed the media and Afghan refugee elders on Thursday during his visit to the Urban Cohesion Hub in Karachi. Maqam outlined the government’s approach to proposed constitutional amendments and provided updates on the situation of Afghan refugees in Pakistan.
Maqam emphasized that the government is committed to introducing constitutional reforms aimed at overhauling the judicial system and ensuring timely justice. He assured that these proposed amendments would be presented to the legislature after thorough consultations with political parties and stakeholders.
He urged political leaders to support the government’s efforts, highlighting that the amendments are intended for the nation’s benefit and devoid of personal agendas. Addressing concerns about opposition to these reforms, Maqam suggested that some resistance is motivated by political gain rather than genuine concern.
He criticized such opposition and called for unity among political leaders for the country’s betterment. On the matter of Afghan refugees, Maqam acknowledged Pakistan’s longstanding role as a host, accommodating over 3 million Afghan refugees, including approximately 1.4 million legal migrants and numerous undocumented individuals. He praised both federal and provincial governments, as well as national and international organizations, for their efforts to address refugee issues and facilitate their repatriation.
The minister noted that while repatriation of illegal Afghan immigrants is a government priority, it is pursued without coercion. Maqam condemned efforts to undermine Pakistan’s hospitality towards Afghan refugees, suggesting that certain elements are inciting discord and animosity between the two neighboring nations. He called for the Afghan government to support measures benefiting both countries and to hold accountable those promoting divisive agendas. Maqam underscored the interlinked stability of Pakistan and Afghanistan, stressing that peace in Afghanistan is crucial for Pakistan’s stability and vice versa.
