Tuesday, 17 December 2024, 05:36:13 am


 
Analysts term repatriation of illegal foreign nationals vital for national security and economy
October 07, 2023

Najam-us-Saqib (Former Ambassador):  Unfortunately, Pakistan finds itself in a precarious situation with vulnerabilities on both its eastern and western borders. The situation escalated significantly after the events of August 5th, 2019, when India took actions that violated numerous international norms and altered the demographic landscape of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This contentious issue remains a longstanding item on the United Nations charter, with global consensus opposing India's unilateral actions. Notably, countries such as China, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and various international human rights organizations have unequivocally labeled India's decision to revoke Article 370 and 35-A as illegal. Simultaneously, Pakistan faces security challenges along its western border due to the presence of militant organizations, including Daesh, ISIS, TTP, and Al-Qaeda, which are active in Afghanistan and engaged in acts of terrorism within Pakistan. Their activities aim to destabilize the country. Nonetheless, the current policies of the caretaker government appear to be moving in the right direction. They have initiated a crackdown, as directed by the Army Chief, to combat issues such as smuggling, power theft, and the expulsion of illegal immigrants who have been residing in Pakistan without proper authorization for an extended period. It is evident that India seeks to weaken Pakistan economically, viewing it as the primary regional threat. India's consistent increases in defense spending reflect its efforts to disrupt the regional balance of power and counter the rise of the Chinese economy.

Dr. Zahid Anwar Khan (IR Expert): Undoubtedly, the rule of law constitutes a crucial pillar of good governance. The government has set a deadline for illegal residents to depart from Pakistan, or else stringent measures will be enforced. The paramount concern of the government is the safety and well-being of its citizens, and it has come to light that these illegal immigrants were engaged in questionable activities posing a threat to the country's security. For nearly four decades, Pakistan has generously accommodated millions of Afghan refugees, but now it is imperative for illegal refugees to return to their home countries. Among the undocumented immigrants in Pakistan, a significant portion, approximately 1.73 million, hails from Afghanistan. It is essential for all individuals to enter Pakistan through proper channels, holding valid passports and visas. The decision to repatriate these migrants aligns with both international and Pakistan's legal frameworks. It's worth noting that no country permits the residence of individuals who have entered unlawfully within their borders.