ISLAMABAD: A delegation of the UNHCR headed by its Director for Regional Bureau for Asia and Pacific Mr Indrika Ratwate called on the Federal Minister for States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON) Talha Mehmood here on Tuesday.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Director briefed the Federal Minister about current status of Afghan refugees and informed him about projects and initiatives taken for voluntary repatriation of the Afghan refugees.
The delegation stressed upon the need for skill development of refugees and to mobilize resources for Afghan community. The Minister said the current regional and global economic situation has created challenges for host countries and such countries are facing difficulties in supporting the refugees.
The Minister said that world community needs to create a pull factor for voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees. He said Pakistan is engaging Afghan authorities to create feasible economic conditions to expedite voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees.
The Minister said the economic situation of the region has made refugees communities more vulnerable. He said Pakistan is facing terrorism and economic crisis and it is very critical to resolve long standing issues including that of Afghan refugees.