ISLAMABAD: Minister for States and Frontier Regions Amir Muqam said that Pakistan continues to bear world’s largest refugee burden, having done so for past 40 years and urged international community to acknowledge this.

Talking to delegation led by Mio Sato Chief of Mission for United Nations International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Pakistan, Minister commended International Organisation for Migration for its services to Afghan citizen card holders and host community, said press release here. Chief Commissioner for Afghan Refugees Mohammad Abbas Khan, Joint Secretary of SAFRON, and senior officials were also present. Minister said that more support is needed in health, education and infrastructure building. He expressed desire for Afghan refugees to return to their country with dignity, noting that there have been no incidents of forced expulsion or harassment. He emphasised need for screening to determine their locations and activities. Amir Muqam said Pakistan is aware of business activities, education and relationships of Afghan refugees within country. He highlighted that many Afghans are involved in businesses that are beneficial to both Pakistan and its citizens.

Minister said that he will travel to Geneva in June at invitation of High Commissioner of UNHCR, and he plans to meet with DG of IOM. Ministry of SAFRON and IOM have agreed to maintain ongoing communication. Chief of Mission MIO Sato expressed gratitude to Minister for meeting despite holiday and stated her intention to maintain close contact with Ministry.