Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is essential for the safe return of Afghan nationals. Marking World Refugee Day, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting refugees and facilitating dignified repatriation. The statement is significant for millions of Afghans and highlights the need for international cooperation on refugee issues.
In his message, the prime minister said Pakistan stood in solidarity with refugees worldwide under this year’s theme, “Until Everyone is Safe.” He stressed that safety is a basic human right and called on the global community to share responsibility for protecting displaced populations. He also urged greater recognition and support for countries hosting large refugee populations.
Shehbaz noted that Pakistan has hosted millions of Afghan refugees since 1979 despite limited resources. He said the country provided shelter, education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and other essential services to Afghan families over several decades. As a result, Pakistan remained among the world’s largest refugee-hosting nations for more than 40 years.
وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف کا پناہ گزینوں کے عالمی دن 20 جون 2026 پر پیغام
عالمی یومِ مہاجرین پر پاکستان اقوام عالم کے ساتھ مل کر دنیا بھر کے مہاجرین کے ساتھ اظہار یکجہتی کرتا ہے
پاکستان دنیا کے ساتھ ہم آواز ہو کر بے گھر اور نقل مکانی پر مجبور افراد کے بلند عزم و حوصلے اور کو… pic.twitter.com/WOSBXUXbH3— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) June 20, 2026
The premier highlighted that Pakistan launched a phased and orderly repatriation programme in September 2023. According to him, more than 2.4 million Afghan nationals had returned to Afghanistan by June 2026. He said these figures reflect the experiences of people who found safety and support in Pakistan during difficult periods of their lives.
Meanwhile, Shehbaz emphasized that hosting refugees placed considerable economic, social, environmental, and security pressures on Pakistan. He reiterated cooperation with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the International Organization for Migration, and other partners. Concluding his message, he urged the international community to ensure displaced people can return home safely, peacefully, and with dignity rather than remain in permanent exile.