Pakistan urges greater global responsibility sharing for refugees
An Afghan family, who were living as refugees in Pakistan, carries bundles of supplies at a humanitarian aid station in Torkham, Afghanistan. PHOTO: REUTERS/FILE
Pakistan on Monday called for greater global sharing of responsibility for refugees as the international community observes a day designated to honour the world’s displaced people.
In a statement issued on the World Refugee Day, observed annually on June 20, PM Shehbaz specifically mentioned the refugees belonging to war-torn countries like Syria, Palestine and Afghanistan, underscoring the need for a renewed policy focus and resources for the redressal of their plight.
The prime minister termed refugees as “the worst victims of wars and conflicts”, besides poverty and economic inequality. He urged the international community to assist the developing countries that were lending a helping hand to refugees.
“The world should help developing countries who continue to host a large number of refugees,” he said.
Meanwhile, President Arif Alvi, in a statement issued on the occasion, called for empathy to comprehend the issues of refugees and to recognise their plight and resilience.
“Let us resolve that the international community will continue its collective efforts and support for refugees around the world,” Alvi said, adding that the ultimate solution to their problems was the 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.”
Similarly, the Foreign Office in a statement echoed the prime minister, saying the day was an occasion to reiterate collective resolve for refugee protection under the principle of international burden- and responsibility-sharing.
“Pakistan joined the international community in commemorating the day and expressed solidarity with refugees all around the world.”
“Pakistan has shouldered the responsibility of one of the largest and most protracted refugee situations in the world for over four decades. Pakistan continues to host more than three million Afghans,” it added.