Iran is advocating for collaboration with Afghanistan to effectively address the Afghan refugee situation, emphasizing the need for legal frameworks and the separation of refugee issues from political concerns.
Iran emphasizes the necessity of cooperation with Afghanistan to address the challenges surrounding Afghan refugees. Alireza Bigdeli articulated Iran’s desire for legal mechanisms to oversee the status of these refugees, particularly focusing on the integration of undocumented individuals during a meeting with Afghanistan’s Acting Minister of Refugee and Repatriation, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir. In enhancing relations, Bigdeli praised Afghanistan’s measures against human trafficking, highlighting that such prohibitions would foster better bilateral collaboration.
Both officials recognized the urgent need to dissociate refugee issues from political contexts, urging for actionable strategies to provide solutions. As indicated by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Iran accommodates the most substantial refugee population globally, housing approximately 3.8 million individuals in need of refuge or those in similar scenarios. The report revealed that an impressive 99% of these refugees reside within urban communities, coexisting with local populations, while only 1% are located in designated refugee camps across various provinces of Iran.
In summary, Iran is actively seeking cooperation with Afghanistan to address the critical situation of Afghan refugees, focusing on legal solutions and support for undocumented refugees. The distinction between humanitarian concerns and political issues was emphasized as essential for implementing effective strategies. Considering Iran’s significant role in hosting a large refugee population, collaborative efforts will be vital in ensuring the well-being of Afghan refugees.
Original Source: en.mehrnews.com