Pakistan joins int’l community in commemorating World Refugee Day: FM
Qureshi

ISLAMABAD, (MANEND NEWS): Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has
said that Pakistan joins the international community in commemorating the
World Refugee Day.
Foreign Minister in his message on the World Refugee Day – 20 June 2021
has said that this year, the Day is being observed in the backdrop of
unprecedented public health and socio-economic challenges posed by the
COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges have exacerbated the vulnerabilities
of those displaced by violence and conflicts.
He said that this Day serves as an opportunity to take stock of the drivers of
conflicts and reminds us to enhance investments in peace, conflict
prevention and conflict resolution. It is also an occasion to reiterate our
common resolve for refugee protection, to match the generosity and share
the responsibility shouldered by large refugee hosting countries.
For over four decades, Pakistan has led by example in refugee protection, he
said adding that Pakistan has been one of the world’s largest refugee hosting
countries. Pakistan still hosts around 3 million Afghans providing them
necessary protection.
Qureshi sad that the people of Pakistan have demonstrated exemplary
values of generosity, solidarity and compassion towards the refugees in the
country, showcased in Pakistan’s inclusive policies on public health,
education and livelihoods, including during the on-going COVID-19 response.

FM Qureshi sad that the people of Pakistan have contributed more than their
fair share of shouldering an international responsibility by hosting millions of
refugees. Pakistan has also been playing a key role in facilitating sustainable
peace in Afghanistan.
The pre-pandemic and COVID-compounded socio-economic and health
challenges especially for developing countries that host millions of refugees
necessitate global political and financial support that meets the needs of
host communities and large refugee populations, he added.
FM Qureshi sad that On this Day, Pakistan pays special tribute to the UNHCR
for its commendable work with respect to advocacy, leadership and support
to the refugees and host communities throughout the world, especially
amidst the on-going pandemic.
Pakistan also reiterates its call for greater global responsibility-sharing,
redoubling of efforts for durable solutions, and an early peaceful political
settlement in Afghanistan that paves the way for dignified, time-bound and
well-resourced repatriation of Afghan refugees supported by the
international community.