Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed that a peaceful, stable and economically resilient Afghanistan is crucial for the return of Afghan nationals and their successful reintegration into society. He shared the message while marking World Refugee Day under the theme “Until Everyone is Safe.”
The prime minister said Pakistan stands in solidarity with refugees around the world and recognizes their resilience in the face of displacement. He also emphasized the need for greater international support for countries that host large refugee populations.
According to PM Shehbaz, ensuring safety and dignity for displaced people is a shared global responsibility. He noted that the return of Afghan nationals requires not only repatriation efforts but also a secure and stable environment in Afghanistan.
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
Highlighting Pakistan’s historical role, he recalled that the country opened its borders to millions of Afghans following developments in 1979. Despite limited resources, Pakistan provided shelter, education, healthcare and employment opportunities to generations of Afghan refugees.
The prime minister stated that Pakistan remained one of the world’s largest refugee-hosting countries for more than four decades. Afghan families were allowed to live with dignity and access essential services while residing in the country.
He noted that since September 2023, Pakistan has been implementing a phased and orderly repatriation programme. As part of the return of Afghan nationals, more than 2.4 million Afghans had returned to their homeland by June 2026, reflecting the scale of the ongoing effort.
Concluding his message, PM Shehbaz urged the international community to support displaced populations and help create conditions that allow refugees to return home safely and with dignity. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to working with international organizations to achieve sustainable solutions for refugee communities.
