KABUL (Khaama Press): The Canadian Immigration Ministry has announced that it will provide $21 million in financial aid to support vulnerable Afghan refugees in Pakistan and Central Asian countries.
Mark Miller, the Canadian Immigration Minister, stated at the “Global Refugee Forum” in Geneva on Saturday that this aid would be made available to the International Organization for Migration. This announcement highlights Canada’s collaborative efforts with international organizations to aid refugees.
Miller emphasized that the funds are allocated to meet the needs of Afghan refugees in host countries. This move is a part of Canada’s broader strategy to support displaced individuals where they currently reside.
“The Government of Canada has committed to providing CAN$21 million in grant funding over three years (from 2022–2023 to 2024–2025) to support the IOM’s Comprehensive Action Plan. This funding advances Canada’s commitment to support displaced Afghans. Activities funded to date focus on helping government and local organizations respond to the protection, health and integration needs of Afghan refugees in their communities in five countries neighbouring Afghanistan: Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan,” the document said.
According to Miller, the Canadian government intends to settle more than 136,000 refugees over the next three years. This ambitious plan underlines Canada’s role as a leading nation in refugee resettlement.
Additionally, Miller stressed that Canada’s commitment to accept 40,000 vulnerable Afghans has been exceeded. This exceeds previous goals, demonstrating Canada’s dedication to offering refuge to those in dire need.
The Canadian Immigration Ministry’s newsletter states that the country is committed to protecting and resettling vulnerable groups, including women in unsafe conditions, religious and ethnic minorities, Rohingya refugees, human rights defenders, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. This commitment underscores Canada’s comprehensive approach to refugee protection.
The document also reports that thousands of Afghan refugees from countries like Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan have already been relocated to Canada.
These efforts by the Canadian government reflect a strong commitment to humanitarian principles and international cooperation in addressing the global refugee crisis. Canada continues to be a key player in providing support and resettlement opportunities for those fleeing conflict and persecution.
