Afghan Refugees
ISLAMABAD: The US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome and Administrator Samantha Power discussed the issues of Afghan refugees relocation and other important matters with Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani.
According to the U.S. Mission Spokesperson Jonathan Lalley, Ambassador Blome met with Caretaker Foreign Minister Jilani to discuss a broad range of critical bilateral issues, including the safe and efficient processing of Afghan citizens eligible for relocation or resettlement in the United States.
The Ambassador highlighted the two countries’ mutual interest in ensuring the safety and security of refugees and asylum seekers, and the importance of putting in place appropriate screening mechanisms so that individuals with legitimate claims of credible fear are not placed in harm’s way.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson Jessica Jennings said that Administrator Samantha Power spoke with Pakistan Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani on Wednesday.
They discussed USAID’s work in Pakistan on post-flood recovery, climate change, and broader efforts under the U.S.-Pakistan Green Alliance.
They also discussed the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and efforts of the U.S. and other countries to provide life-saving food, water, medical care, and other critical assistance to civilians in need.
Administrator Power noted the importance of protecting Afghan refugees and asylum seekers in Pakistan, and discussed with Foreign Minister Jilani how the United States and Pakistan can work together to facilitate the safe, expeditious, and efficient resettlement and relocation of eligible individuals to the United States.
No ceasefire, no vote for Biden
Muslim and Arab American groups are threatening to withhold donations and votes for President Joe Biden’s 2024 reelection unless he takes immediate action to secure a ceasefire in Gaza.
The National Muslim Democratic Council, which includes Democratic Party leaders from crucial swing states like Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, has urged Biden to use his influence with Israel to broker a ceasefire.
In an open letter titled “2023 Ceasefire Ultimatum,” Muslim leaders have pledged to mobilize “Muslim, Arab, and allied voters” to withhold their support for any candidate who endorses the Israeli offensive against the Palestinian people.
They express concern about the unconditional support provided by the Biden administration, including funding and armaments, which they believe has contributed to the ongoing violence and civilian casualties.
Emgage, a Muslim-American civic group, reported that nearly 1.1 million Muslims voted in the 2020 election, with 64% voting for Biden and 35% for his Republican rival, Donald Trump.
The Arab American Institute notes that approximately 3.7 million Americans have roots in Arab countries and has found a significant drop in support for Biden and Democrats within this group.
