Close contact with Pak on safety of persons awaiting visa process: US

WASHINGTON: The US on Tuesday reiterated its call to Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries, including Pakistan, to allow entry for Afghans seeking protection and coordinate with international organizations to provide humanitarian assistance. 

“We are in close and constant communication with the government of Pakistan on the safety of individuals in the US pipeline,” the US Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller said during the daily briefing. The pipeline was a reference to Afghan refugees in Pakistan awaiting their visa processes.

“It is our desire to work in good faith with the government of Pakistan to address any concerns that it may have,” the spokesperson said, adding that the US key concern was the safety of the vulnerable, at risk individuals.

“We believe it is in both our countries interest to ensure the safe and efficient resettlement of refugees and asylum seekers,” he underscored and urged all countries including Pakistan to uphold their respective obligations in the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers.

Responding to a question about the US ambassador’s rumored meeting with the PTI chairman in Adiala jail, the spokesperson suggested contacting the US mission in Pakistan but also repeated that the US does not take a position on candidates for political office in Pakistan or any other country.