Afghan Ambassador in Islamabad Says UN Refugee Agency Aid Is Insufficient
A delegation from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), led by Philippa Kandler, the head of the agency in Pakistan, met in Islamabad with Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb, the Taliban administration’s ambassador. The meeting focused on the situation of Afghan migrants remaining in Pakistan, particularly students and other residents, emphasizing the continuation of cooperation.
According to published information, the Taliban administration’s ambassador expressed appreciation for the agency’s monitoring of refugee conditions but stated that the assistance provided to Afghan migrants is insufficient. He raised concerns about the challenges faced by migrants, students, and other Afghan residents in Pakistan and called for greater attention from the international community.
Philippa Kandler, referring to UNHCR’s financial constraints, said that despite the shortage of resources, the agency is striving to provide the maximum possible support to Afghan migrants. She stressed the importance of ongoing cooperation and coordination with relevant parties.
Meanwhile, Charlie Goodlich, a member of the UNHCR’s External Relations section in Kabul, provided information on the situation of returnees from Iran and Pakistan. He stated that nearly 25 million dollars have been allocated in 2025 to support returning migrants and that this aid will continue in coordination with the Taliban administration.
While international organizations highlight resource limitations, many Afghan migrants still face residency, educational, and livelihood challenges in host countries. This situation calls for transparent and accountable planning by the Taliban administration and practical cooperation from the international community.
