Islamabad : Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi says Pakistan reiterates its call for greater global responsibility-sharing, redoubling of efforts for durable solutions, and an early peaceful political settlement in Afghanistan that paves the way for dignified, time-bound and well-resourced repatriation of Afghan refugees supported by the international community.

In his message on the World Refugee Day, he said for over four decades, Pakistan has led by example in refugee protection as the country is one of the world’s largest refugee hosting countries.

He said Pakistan still hosts around 3 million Afghans providing them necessary protection according to country’s inclusive policies on public health, education and livelihoods, during the on-going COVID-19 response.

He said the people of Pakistan have contributed more than their fair share of shouldering the international responsibility by hosting millions of refugees.

The Foreign Minister said the COVID-compounded socio-economic and health challenges for developing countries that host millions of refugees necessitate global political and financial support to the host countries.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi said Pakistan has also been playing a key role in facilitating sustainable peace in Afghanistan.

Commending work of UNHCR with respect to leadership and support to the refugees and host communities throughout the world, he said this day serves as an opportunity to take stock of the drivers of conflicts and reminds us to enhance investment in peace, conflict prevention and conflict resolution.