|
 |
A deal cut on the repatriation of Afghans stranded in Indonesia
Scores of Afghan refugees, stranded in Indonesia as they tried to reach Australia, are to return to their homeland under a deal between authorities in Kabul and Jakarta.
The United Nations announced the move saying the voluntary repatriation programme is due to start in mid-May, following a visit to Indonesia last week by Afghanistan's Refugees and Repatriation Minister.
He met 400 refugees at three different camps in Indonesia, answered their questions on the situation in Afghanistan and told them they were welcome to return home.
The scheme will by run by the UN's International Organisation for Migration which has already received hundreds of requests for repatriation.
Many of the refugees fled Afghanistan under the Taliban and travelled to Indonesia, hoping to be smuggled into Australia.
However, the UN says Australia's crackdown on illegal immigration and the fall of the Taliban have changed their circumstances.
03/05/2002 04:22:23 | ABC Radio Australia News
Back
|
|
|
|
Related Stories
|
|
01/05/2002 23:26:11
Australia says Indonesia failed to help sinking boat.
01/05/2002 20:20:33
Three Indonesian soldiers in futher detention over Theys Eluay
01/05/2002 18:59:25
Environmentalists to challenge Indonesia over llegal log shipments
01/05/2002 18:59:23
Environmental watchdogs to challenge Indonesian police timber ruling
|
|
Related Sites
|
|
Radio Australia Indonesian Language Service
Radio Australia - Asia Pacific
In depth coverage of major events across Asia and the Pacific. Asia Pacific brings you the opinions of the people who matter.
World News
from Radio Australia
News across Asia, the Pacific and beyond.
|
