Afghan consul general asks refugees to return home

PESHAWAR: Afghan Consul General in Peshawar, Hafiz Mohibullah Shakir, has said that Afghanistan is now a free and peaceful country, urging Afghan refugees to return home and contribute to the rebuilding of their nation.

Addressing a press conference, he said a dedicated camp has been set up for those returning from Pakistan, assuring that there will be no issues for returnees. “We are prepared for their return, and the Afghan government is also ready to receive them. Facilities are being provided for those going back,” he added.

The consul general stated that all Afghans can now do business in their own country. “There is peace and opportunity for trade. Refugees should not worry. Ministries have been instructed to support returnees. A delegation from Afghanistan is arriving in Pakistan, and some individuals are crossing through the Torkham border,” he added.

“We believe the property and wealth of Afghan refugees in Pakistan will not go waste. There is no mistreatment of refugees in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and so far around 70,000 refugees have returned. The first phase is always difficult, but ease will follow.”

He also mentioned that women’s education will be permitted in Afghanistan. “Islam allows it. The system of education will be reformed, and separate institutions for women will be established,” he concluded.