ISLAMABAD, Oct 21 (APP):Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, Engineer Amir Muqam, on Wednesday met UNHCR Representative in Pakistan Noriko Takagi to discuss Afghan refugee issues and humanitarian concerns.
The minister welcomed Takagi and congratulated her on taking up her new responsibilities as the representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Pakistan.
The meeting was attended by the secretary and additional secretary of the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, the Chief Commissioner Afghan Refugees (CCAR), and UNHCR representatives.
During the meeting, Amir Muqam reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to implementing its national laws and policies while taking genuine humanitarian concerns into account, said a press released issued here.
He also appreciated UNHCR’s cooperation and support for Pakistan over the past four decades.
Takagi appreciated Pakistan’s longstanding hospitality towards Afghan refugees and acknowledged the government’s policy framework. She also highlighted concerns about vulnerable individuals who could face serious risks if returned to their country of origin and called for their cases to be considered carefully.
Responding to these concerns, the minister said cases involving credible threats to life and safety required careful attention. He stressed that such cases should be assessed by the relevant authorities in line with Pakistan’s laws, policies, established procedures and applicable international obligations.
He also emphasized the importance of stronger coordination between the government and UNHCR. He said a more structured mechanism could be explored to review particularly sensitive cases within the existing legal and policy framework.
Takagi reaffirmed UNHCR’s willingness to continue working with the Pakistani government to address humanitarian and protection concerns through dialogue and cooperation.
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing on the importance of continued engagement and coordination to address refugee-related issues while respecting Pakistan’s laws, government policies and humanitarian responsibilities.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
