Daily Times

“(The) EU is keeping a close eye on Kashmir situation and we are concerned about (the) growing conflict. We acknowledge the ambitious and hectic efforts being carried out by Prime Minister Imran Khan for avoiding a humanitarian crisis in Kashmir,” said Ambassador Carl Hallergard in a meeting with Minister for SAFRON and Narcotics Control Shehryar Khan Afridi in Geneva. The ambassador said the European Union has acknowledged efforts by Pakistani government for Afghan refugees which are unparalleled in the history. He said that generous hosting of millions of refugees for over four decades reflects the generosity and care for humanity by the people and government of Pakistan. He said he is closely connected with Pakistani mission in Geneva, adding that Pakistan has a strong and genuine case on Afghan refugees and the EU will try to join hands financially to assist Pakistan in dealing with the situation. On the occasion, Shehryar Afridi briefed the EU delegation on humanitarian crisis developing in the occupied valley. He said that the world needs to act before it’s too late. He said Kashmir is a nuclear flashpoint between Pakistan and India and the situation may get out of hands as India has heavily militarised the region. He said any miscalculation may lead to a crisis which can have impact beyond regions and borders.

Detailing the situation about Afghan refugees, Afridi said Pakistan’s efforts must be acknowledged by the developed world. “Especially the way we are catering to the humanitarian issue of refugees for the past 40 long years. We have not only provided food but also job opportunities besides other social services including health and education,” he said.

The minister said Prime Minister Imran Khan has recently directed opening of bank accounts of over 1.4 million Afghan refugees which has no parallel in human history.

Carl agreed that Pakistan is rendering unprecedented sacrifices to facilitate the Afghan refugees. He added that Pakistan has a strong case and “we will come and join hands with Pakistan to deal with Afghan refugees.”