ISLAMABAD, Jan 25: The UNHCR has signed a pact with the Afghan interim administration paving the way for the return of hundreds of thousands of Afghan refugees from Pakistan and Iran during the current year.

According to the UNHCR, the accord covered practical issues such as transportation, return packages and special assistance to the most vulnerable refugees as well as helping returnees reintegrate into the society.

To cover the cross-border issues with neighbouring countries, Afghanistan’s interim administration would also sign agreements with Pakistan and Iran, the UNHCR sources said.

According to a refugee agency spokesperson, the Afghan interim administration has reacted positively to UNHCR’s suggestion that amnesty be granted to the returnees to allay any fears among the refugees that they could face prosecution for offences such as avoiding conscription.