Federal Minister for Human Rights Senator Kamran Michael has said that through comprehensive strategy, legislative and programmatic measures have been taken by the incumbent government for the promotion and protection of rights of children, women and minorities.
He expressed these views in a meeting with the State Department’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration Ms Nancy Izzo Jackson here in Islamabad on Friday. Besides, USAID’s Deputy Assistant to the Administrator for Afghanistan Jason Foley, officials of Ministry of Human Rights and others were also present on this occasion.
The minister said, ‘We are taking various step to facilitate the Afghan refugees for their voluntarily repatriation and to ensure the early sustained return of Afghan refugees from Pakistan. They participants discussed matters of human rights with particular reference to Afghan refugees in the Pakistan, dignified return of Afghan refugees and situation in the region.
During the meeting, the minister apprised the State Department’s deputy assistant secretary about the steps been taken to ensure the provision of the facilities to Afghan Refugees and assured her that all possible facilities would be provided them. He said that all out efforts have been made to protect the human rights of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Michael stressed the importance of close coordination between the two governments regarding the return of Afghan refugees. He said that the promotion and protection of human rights including the rights of women, children and especially minorities was the top most priority of our government.
Kamran Michael also highlighted the steps taken by the government of particularly by Ministry for Human Rights to promote and safeguard the fundamental rights including the rights of women, children and minorities. Kamran Michael reiterated that Pakistan would continue to support Afghanistan in its pursuit of peace and rehabilitation endeavours. The minister said that international community should acknowledge Pakistan’s commitment and efforts to hosting millions of Afghan refugees for more than 30 years.
Ms Nancy lauded the endeavours of Pakistan for hosting millions of Afghan refugees and providing them basic necessities of life for decades.