Iran is seeking collaboration with Afghanistan to address Afghan refugee issues through legal measures, emphasizing the need to separate refugee matters from political concerns. With hosting 3.8 million refugees, Iran has remained a longstanding supporter of those in need.
Iran is advocating for cooperation with Afghanistan to address the pressing issue of Afghan refugees. Alireza Bigdeli, in a meeting with Afghanistan’s Acting Minister of Refugee and Repatriation, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, emphasized the need for legal avenues to manage the presence of Afghan refugees while seeking permanent solutions for the undocumented individuals among them.
Bigdeli underscored the significance of legalizing the status of Afghan refugees and commended Afghanistan’s efforts to prohibit human trafficking. He noted that “Prohibition of human trafficking from Afghanistan to Iran will strengthen cooperation between the two countries.” The dialogue between the officials highlighted the necessity of distancing refugee matters from political conflicts, proposing a focused approach to find practical solutions.
According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) April-June 2024 factsheet, Iran accommodates the highest number of refugees globally, totaling 3.8 million individuals in refugee-like situations. Iran has been a generous host for over 40 years, with 99% of registered refugees residing in urban areas, living alongside local communities, while the remaining 1% are situated in designated refugee settlements across 12 provinces.
In summary, Iran is calling for collaborative efforts with Afghanistan to effectively resolve the complex issue of Afghan refugees. By pursuing legal methods and emphasizing prevention of human trafficking, the two nations aim to tackle this humanitarian concern while ensuring the separation of refugee issues from political disputes. Iran’s longstanding commitment to hosting refugees showcases its pivotal role in providing support amid crises.
Original Source: en.mehrnews.com
