UNHCR lauds Pakistan's hospitality to Afghan refugees

Islamabad: UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi on Monday appreciated Pakistan's hospitality and generosity for hosting millions of Afghan refugees for decades despite facing challenges on various fronts.          

He was talking to Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad.          

They discussed wide range of issues pertaining to the global refugee situation with a particular focus on Afghan refugees and longstanding cooperation between Pakistan and the UNHCR.

The UN High Commissioner termed Pakistan's efforts and contributions in hosting Afghan refugees as a remarkable example of the country's hospitality.     

He briefed the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister on UNHCR's ongoing projects and emphasized the importance of sustained engagement and cooperation between Pakistan and the UNHCR.                 

The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister also shared Pakistan's perspective and priorities with regard to Afghan refugees.   

He underscored that the new humanitarian situations emerging around the world must not divert the global attention away from the needs of millions of Afghans.

Ishaq Dar also underlined the need for continued demonstration of international solidarity and faithful adherence to the principle of international responsibility and burden-sharing.

Both sides agreed to continue working closely for the provision of necessary assistance to Afghan refugees, and the implementation of sustainable solutions for their well-resourced, safe and dignified return.