ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the international community’s shared responsibility to protect and rehabilitate refugees in his message marking World Refugee Day. According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for a global commitment to ensure displaced and stateless individuals can return home safely and with dignity, rather than facing permanent exile.

The Prime Minister highlighted Pakistan’s role since 1979, when millions of Afghan refugees sought safety from conflict and insecurity by crossing into Pakistan. Despite limited resources, Pakistan welcomed these refugees by establishing settlements and camps, becoming one of the largest refugee-hosting countries. Afghan families have been able to live in Pakistan with access to employment, education, and essential services.

Since September 2023, Pakistan has initiated a phased repatriation process, with 2.4 million Afghan nationals expected to return to Afghanistan by June 2026. Sharif noted that Pakistan has faced numerous challenges during this period, including economic and security issues, yet it remains committed to supporting a stable and resilient Afghanistan, which is crucial for the sustainable reintegration of Afghan nationals.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged Pakistan’s valuable partnerships with organizations like the International Organization for Migration and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, emphasizing the importance of these collaborations in achieving the shared goal of supporting displaced individuals.