Islamabad: The United Nations has called for a tripartite dialogue to facilitate the safe and voluntary return of Afghan refugees, a matter discussed extensively during a meeting between UN Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General Indrika Ratwatte and Pakistan’s Minister for States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON), Amir Muqam.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Minister Muqam outlined Pakistan’s longstanding role as a host to Afghan refugees for four decades and expressed the nation’s current sentiments and policies regarding their repatriation. Ratwatte praised Pakistan’s efforts and sacrifices in managing the refugee situation, acknowledging the strain on the country’s resources.

During his recent visit to Kabul, Ratwatte engaged with the Interim Afghan Government to ensure the creation of a conducive environment for the refugees’ return. He urged the Pakistani ministry to consider Afghanistan’s request for a dialogue in the upcoming Tripartite meeting, emphasizing its potential role in achieving a sustainable solution.

Minister Muqam reiterated that the key to resolving the refugee issue lies in ensuring peace and stability in Afghanistan and called for increased international support, including commitments to third-country resettlement of refugees.