Islamabad: Federal Minister for States and Frontier Regions, Engr. Amir Muqam, convened a meeting on Thursday with representatives from various International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) working in Pakistan, focusing on Afghan refugee issues. The meeting aimed to enhance the collaboration between the government and INGOs to better serve the needs of Afghan refugees through improved socio-economic support.

According to Press Information Department, the minister emphasized the government’s appreciation for the INGOs’ contributions to its socio-economic policies and programs. “Our priority must be to provide assistance to more people,” Engr. Amir Muqam stated, asserting the commitment of the Ministry of SAFRON to offer all necessary support and assistance to these organizations. He urged the INGOs to align their projects with current needs and effectively utilize funds to address critical issues faced by the refugee population.

The session was attended by key government officials including Zafar Hassan, Secretary of the Ministry of States and Frontier Regions; Agha Waseem Ahmad, Joint Secretary of SAFRON; Abbas Khan, Chief Commissioner for Afghan Refugees; and Shakeel Muhammad Khan Safi, Commissioner for Afghan Refugees in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Representatives from the INGOs presented overviews of their work which spans across various sectors such as livelihood improvement, vocational training, income generation activities, gender-based violence, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), psychosocial support, education, and health for Afghan refugees.

The discussions highlighted the vital role of INGOs in national development and the humanitarian response in Pakistan, particularly in aiding the Afghan refugee community. By improving coordination and support, the meeting underscored a collective effort to enhance the impact of projects aimed at refugee assistance and integration.