ISLAMABAD: The UN refugee agency welcomed the federal government’s decision to extend the Proof of Registration (PoR) cards to about 1.4 million Afghan refugees in Pakistan until June 30, 2019.
“The decision will provide relief and predictability to Afghan refugees who were facing uncertainty and anxiety,” said UNHCR Country Representative in Pakistan Ruvendrini Menikdiwela.
She met with Advisor to the Prime Minister on Establishment Arbab Shahzad on Friday.
Menikdiwela appreciated the people and government of Pakistan for hosting Afghan refugees for nearly four decades.
“Pakistan has been an exemplary host throughout these times,” she said, adding that UNHCR will continue to support any future government policy which supports voluntary repatriation in dignity and safety.
Menikdiwela said that UNHCR will continue to call for international support to Pakistan for Pakistani host communities and Afghan refugees living in Pakistan.
Menikdewela also briefed the advisor on the upcoming ministerial conference being organised by the government of Afghanistan and the United Nations on November 27-28 in Geneva.
Menikdewela said that preparations for the conference are underway, adding that the objective is to firmly show the solidarity of the international community with the people and government of Afghanistan.
