It gives me immense satisfaction to extend this message on the World Refugees Day, designated by the United Nations, to commemorate the strength and courage of people who have been forced to leave their countries unwillingly. It is indeed an occasion to promote empathy to comprehend the issues of refugees and to recognize their plight and resilience. Pakistan has continued to host one the largest refugee population around the world. Beginning in 1979, millions of Afghan refugees started arriving in Pakistan and have continued to do so over the past four decades depending on conditions within Afghanistan. Despite the fact that the level of international support for Afghan refugees has continued to decline over decades, Government of Pakistan has provided all possible facilities including food, shelter, access to educational and medical facilities and ample livelihood opportunities for the refugees. During the COVID-19 pandemic, testing and vaccine facilities were also provided to 1.43 million registered Afghan refugees and 850,000 Afghan Citizen Card Holders as part of the National Covid Program. As such, there should be no doubt about the commitment of Pakistan to the cause of refugees and the international community has acknowledged the contributions of Pakistan for this international cause. On World Refugees Day, let us resolve that the international community will continue its collective efforts and support for refugees around the world. The refugees remain one of the most vulnerable segments of people and the ultimate solution of their problems is promotion of peace and stability in the countries of their origin so that they can return to their homeland with dignity and honour. Pakistan will continue to work with the international community for durable solutions for the issues of refugees around the world.
PREVIOUS NEXT
