Stable govt in Kabul can prevent terrorism: President, Dutch PM agree on future setup
By Our Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD, Oct 27: President Gen Pervez Musharraf said on Saturday that another two million Afghan refugees would cross into the country if Pakistan opens its borders as asked by the United Nations.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Dutch Prime Minister Wim Kok, the president said although Pakistan was concerned for Afghans fleeing US-led bombings, the opening of its borders to refugees would almost double the 2.5 million already living in Pakistan and put enormous strains on social services.
“We are the most concerned. They are our brothers and sisters. The issue involved is that we already have two and half million refugees. If we open the gates freely, we would get about two million, that is our prediction.”
The Dutch Prime Minister, Wim Kok, on the occasion assured full economic support and cooperation to Pakistan, commending its role in the international efforts against terrorism.
“We cannot just say thank you to a country that takes part in coalition like this,” he said, and called for translation of international appreciation and gratitude for Pakistan into effective and meaningful economic support.
President Musharraf underlined the need for the formation of a broad-based multi-ethnic government in Afghanistan. He said restoration of durable peace and formation of a multi-ethnic government, free from outside interference should be the top priority.
“Unity, integrity and political independence of Afghanistan should be preserved,” he said, adding that a political process should be placed on fast track to forestall a vacuum.
He said the political process should also be accompanied by a comprehensive economic package for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the war-torn country.
He also called for assistance for repatriation of Afghan refugees and rehabilitation of those displaced internally by drought and fighting.
President Musharraf urged the international community to take notice of India’s threatening military activities close to Pakistani borders and the Line of Control.
The activity of Indian military close to Pakistani borders could have serious repercussion for the entire South Asian region, the president said.
The visiting Dutch premier, Wim Kok, said that after the Sept 11 incidents it had become all the more important that unnecessary action would be avoided.
“It was important before as well, but specially after Sept 11 it has become all the more important that every partner in the process will be fully aware of the absolute necessity to refrain from unnecessary action,” he said.
About the Kashmir dispute, he said it was a bilateral issue and they shared “firm wish” of international community that lasting peace in South Asia would be restored as regional and international stability was dependent on it.
ISLAMABAD, Oct 27: President Gen Pervez Musharraf said on Saturday that another two million Afghan refugees would cross into the country if Pakistan opens its borders as asked by the United Nations.
