Kabul Seeks Expanded UN Support for Returning Afghan Migrants

DID Press: Taliban officials have called for expanded development cooperation from the United Nations to support the settlement, employment, and livelihood improvement of Afghan migrants returning to the country.

The Taliban Ministry of Foreign Affairs said acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi held talks with Alexander De Croo, a United Nations development representative, and Barham Ahmed Salih, a UN refugee official, focusing on the return process of Afghan migrants, existing challenges, and ways to strengthen cooperation.

According to the ministry, Muttaqi briefed the UN representatives on measures taken to manage the return of migrants, saying that despite progress in organizing returns and providing initial assistance, Afghanistan continues to face major challenges in sustainable housing, long-term livelihoods, employment opportunities, infrastructure development, and access to public services.

He stressed that addressing the wide-ranging needs of returning migrants exceeds current capacities and requires greater development assistance and continued support from international organizations, particularly the United Nations.

The UN representatives also reaffirmed their commitment to continued engagement with Afghanistan on migrant and refugee support, expressing readiness to explore ways to strengthen humanitarian and development programs.