“Immediate Deportation Raises Questions on Diplomatic Protocol”
Islamabad [Pakistan], March 12 – The United States denied entry to Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan, KK Ahsan Wagan, and deported him from Los Angeles on Tuesday, sparking a diplomatic controversy.
Despite possessing a valid U.S. visa and all necessary travel documents, Wagan was stopped by U.S. immigration authorities upon arrival, raising concerns over diplomatic protocol and the growing scrutiny on Pakistani nationals traveling to the U.S.
U.S. Flags ‘Controversial Visa References’
Reports suggest that the U.S. immigration system flagged Wagan due to “controversial visa references,” leading to his immediate deportation. He was sent back to his point of departure, with officials providing no further clarification on the specific reasons behind the move.
A senior official from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) confirmed the incident, stating that “the issue was linked to an immigration objection” but refrained from disclosing further details.
Pakistan Responds, Urges Against Speculation
Following the deportation, Pakistan’s MoFA clarified that Wagan was traveling for a personal visit and insisted on a full investigation before drawing conclusions.
“A probe into the deportation is being conducted. We urge people to refrain from speculation until all the facts are clear,” a ministry spokesperson stated.
Tighter U.S. Visa Rules for Pakistan?
The incident comes amid reports that Pakistan could be placed in an “orange category” under new U.S. visa policies, imposing stricter scrutiny on Pakistani nationals.
While not facing an outright travel ban, Pakistanis could see increased vetting for U.S. visas, particularly for business and tourist categories. If implemented, the new regulations could:
- Restrict certain visa types, especially for business travelers.
- Bar certain tourist and immigrant visas.
- Shorten visa validity periods.
- Mandate in-person interviews for all applicants.
Diplomatic Fallout Expected
The deportation of a senior Pakistani diplomat raises fresh concerns over U.S.-Pakistan relations, particularly in the context of recent tensions surrounding immigration policies. Whether this was an isolated case or an indication of broader policy shifts remains to be seen.
As investigations continue, Pakistan is expected to seek further clarification from the U.S. government, while Washington has yet to issue an official response regarding Wagan’s deportation.