Khawaja Asif says hosting Afghan refugees was Pakistan’s biggest mistake, stirring debate over the country’s long-standing policy. His comments came while responding to recent allegations from the Afghan Taliban.
In a social media post, Khawaja Asif said Pakistan has made many mistakes in its 78-year history, but sheltering Afghan nationals for decades remains the gravest. He also asked for forgiveness for this decision, calling it a burden the nation has carried for generations.
He rejected claims that Pakistan targeted a drug rehabilitation hospital in Kabul, stating that such accusations come from groups responsible for attacks on mosques, civilians, and public places. Innocent lives, including children, have been lost in these attacks, he added.
Khawaja Asif says hosting Afghan refugees also exposed Pakistan to criminal activities, alleging that drug trafficking is a major source of income for elements within Afghanistan. He criticized what he described as ingratitude, noting that Pakistan provided decades of shelter but now faces hostility.
He further said Pakistan stood by Afghanistan during difficult times, even taking major risks on the global stage. Hosting multiple generations of Afghan refugees, according to him, was the gravest mistake in Pakistan’s history.