Kabul seeks tripartite meeting on refugees

ISLAMABAD:

A United Nations (UN) official on Monday said that the interim government in Afghanistan had requested for a dialogue in the Tripartite meeting on the issue of the refugees living in Pakistan.

The statement came as a high-level United Nations delegation led by Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General Indrika Ratwatte called on Federal Minister for States & Frontier Regions Division Engr Amir Muqam.

The delegation comprised of Mohamad Yahya, Resident Coordinator, Ms. Philippa Candler, Country Representative UNHCR in Pakistan, Farman Khilji, Government Liaison Officer UNHCR, Fady El Meouchy, Special Assistant to the DSRSG, Malick Ceesay, UNAMA Head of Office

The UN official stressed that the government of Pakistan, through the Ministry of SAFRON, may like to consider the government of Afghanistan's request for a dialogue in the Tripartite meeting which can be instrumental in finding a sustainable solution to the ongoing Afghan refugees' safe return.

He also informed the minister that during his recent visit to Kabul, he has engaged with the Interim Afghan Government, and convinced them to create a conducive environment for the returning Afghan refugees so that they may reintegrate in their provinces of origin.

Engr Amir Muqam welcomed the delegation and outlined the public sentiment after the recent events and government of Pakistan's stance on safe and voluntary return of Afghan refugees.

Muqam agreed to the fact that the solution for Afghan refugees issues lies in a safe and peaceful Afghanistan.