Pakistan tries to close border

Peshawar - Pakistan is still battling to keep its border closed to Afghan refugees, reports Miriam Donohoe.

While the authorities said yesterday they would shelter refugees who succeed in entering the country, the governor of the North West Frontier Province said access would remain tight.

Pakistan's Minister for Frontiers, Mr Abbas Sarfraz, said there would be a possibility of opening the border only if the situation became untenable "or if there is an attack."

The governor said Pakistan was not able to open its borders because the Northern Alliance openly criticises Pakistan and people coming from those areas could indulge in sabotage.

"The Taliban have also threatened dire consequences if attacked," he said.