Islamabad: During a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi commended Pakistan for its enduring hospitality and substantial support to millions of Afghan refugees over several decades. This acknowledgment highlights Pakistan’s significant role amidst its own national challenges.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the discussions between Grandi and Dar covered a broad range of issues concerning the global refugee situation, with a special emphasis on the plight of Afghan refugees and the ongoing collaboration between Pakistan and the UNHCR. Grandi described Pakistan’s contributions as a “remarkable example” of the nation’s commitment to refugee welfare.

During the meeting, Grandi briefed the Deputy Prime Minister on the UNHCR’s current projects and stressed the importance of continued partnership and engagement with Pakistan. For his part, Deputy Prime Minister Dar reiterated Pakistan’s stance and priorities regarding Afghan refugees, asserting that emerging humanitarian crises worldwide should not overshadow the needs of the Afghan population.

Dar also emphasized the necessity for ongoing international solidarity and a committed adherence to the principles of shared responsibility and burden-sharing. The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to maintain close cooperation to support Afghan refugees and to work toward sustainable solutions for their safe, dignified, and well-resourced return.