ISLAMABAD: Filippo Grandi, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, praised Pakistan and its government for sheltering Afghan refugees for more than four decades.
He expressed his gratitude during a meeting with the Minister for States, Frontier Regions, Kashmir Affairs, and Gilgit Baltistan, Engineer Amir Muqam, in Islamabad on Monday.
Grandi mentioned that a global dialogue scheduled for October will address refugee issues, with Pakistan receiving a special invitation. He hoped that the event would open new avenues of support for refugees worldwide.
Speaking on this occasion, Engineer Amir Muqam acknowledged UNHCR’s enduring assistance to Afghan refugees in Pakistan over the past forty-five years.
He emphasized Pakistan’s role in hosting millions of Afghan refugees, providing them with protection, education, and healthcare.
The Minister also raised concerns about declining international support and development funding for Afghan refugees in Pakistan, stressing the necessity for sustained and robust interventions.
Philippa Candler, the UNHCR Representative in Pakistan, was also present at the meeting.
High Commissioner @FilippoGrandi is currently visiting Pakistan🇵🇰, meeting with refugees, their host communities & @GovtofPakistan.
Refugees and asylum seekers spoke to Grandi about their hope for opportunities and the difficulties they face if returned to Afghanistan. pic.twitter.com/MJukmnb7TT
— UNHCR Pakistan (@UNHCRPakistan) July 8, 2024
