PESHAWAR - Pakistan has voiced its deep concern over a new wave of deadly incidents in Afghanistan, warning of a new influx of refugees.
Minister for States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON) and Narcotics Control Shehryar Khan Afridi expressed his concern during a meeting with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi in Geneva.
Irrespective of the fast developments taking place in the neighbouring country, the minister said, Pakistan would stand by its commitment to protecting Afghan refugees.
The Associated Press of Pakistan quoted Afridi as urging Grandi to work on the challenges being faced by Pakistan in hosting the Afghan refugees.
He believed UNHCR teams should reach out to the Afghan refugees staying in camps and provide them basic health, education and other facilities.
He asked the UNHCR to accelerate efforts to facilitate the voluntary repatriation of Afghan refugees. The minister said all stakeholders needed to address the impact of refugees on host communities.
Pakistan plans to convene a conference showcasing the 40 years of hosting Afghan refugees in February next year. Afridi urged the UNHCR to mobilise support for the event. (Pajhwok)