ISLAMABAD – The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on Thursday welcomed the Government of Pakistan’s six-month extension for Afghan refugees beyond 31 December 2012, according to a press release.
The extension signals Pakistan’s continued commitment to regional stability, as well as to the on-going voluntary repatriation of refugees to Afghanistan in dignity, safety and with honour, the UN refugees agency said.
The governments of Pakistan and Afghanistan, alongside UNHCR, recently reaffirmed their cooperation in the efforts to find durable solutions for Afghan refugees during the 22nd Tripartite Commission meeting held in Lahore on 7-8 December. The Government of Pakistan expressed its appreciation for UNHCR’s efforts and success in implementing a surge in voluntary repatriation since October 2012, and noted the 40 percent increase in returns compared with 2011.
Pakistan has also drawn attention to the considerable value of the data provided by the Population Profiling Verification and Response (PPVR) survey, recognising its utility in facilitating voluntary repatriation and supporting host communities.
Representative of UNHCR in Pakistan, Neill Wright, said, “While the six month extension is important, Afghan refugees will be left wondering what the future has in store in July 2013 and beyond.  The UNHCR will therefore continue to encourage the government to maintain asylum space in the challenging transitional period ahead.”
“The UNHCR acknowledges and appreciates the Pakistan’s enduring support for Afghan refugees, and pledges its continued commitment to support the government in finding lasting solutions for Afghan refugees living in Pakistan,” he added.