Minister of Refugee Affairs Meets Deputy Director of UNHCR

The Acting Minister of Refugee Affairs, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, held a meeting with the Deputy Director of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. Rauf Mazu, and his accompanying delegation. The discussions during the meeting revolved around various topics including the status of Afghan refugees, long-term solutions for migration, improving facilities in refugee settlements, […]

The Acting Minister of Refugee Affairs, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, held a meeting with the Deputy Director of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. Rauf Mazu, and his accompanying delegation. The discussions during the meeting revolved around various topics including the status of Afghan refugees, long-term solutions for migration, improving facilities in refugee settlements, conducting tripartite and quadrilateral meetings with Pakistan and Iran, and collaborating jointly to address the current challenges faced by Afghan refugees.

Mr. Mazu extended his condolences to Minister Abdul Kabir on the martyrdom of Khaleel-ur-Rehman Haqqani and expressed his best wishes for the Minister’s success in his new role. Despite the adverse impact of the global financial crisis on their operations, Mr. Mazu assured that efforts were being made to secure necessary funds to tackle refugee-related issues.

Highlighting that the forced repatriation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan and Iran violates international principles and remains a significant concern, Mr. Mazu conveyed the United Nations’ commitment to constructing refugee settlements and providing assistance.

Honorable Minister Abdul Kabir warmly welcomed Mr. Mazu and commended the collaborative efforts of international partners and humanitarian organizations in addressing the challenges encountered by Afghan refugees. He affirmed that the Ministry of Refugees and Returnees is dedicated to furnishing essential facilities for repatriated refugees and internally displaced individuals, ensuring transparent distribution of aid to those in need.

While emphasizing the priority of refugee repatriation, Minister Abdul Kabir stressed the importance of considering the appropriate timing and circumstances, advocating for voluntary returns in alignment with international principles. Both parties underscored the significance of dialogue and cooperative efforts during the meeting.