Palestinian, Syrian refugees a test for humanity: Maryam

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, in her message on the World Refugee Day, has said: “Being a refugee is not a crime, it is a cruel compulsion. No one becomes a refugee of one’s own desire. One has to leave one’s home, one’s soil to save one’s life.”

She highlighted: “Wars come to an end, but the feelings of homelessness of refugees remain for generations. The helplessness of displaced refugees of Palestine and Syria amounts to a severe test for the humanity. The world must realize the grave reality that those who seek asylum are not weak, but oppressed.”

She outlined: “Despite scarce resources, Pakistan has generously hosted millions of refugees by upholding their dignity and esteem. Pakistan has always become a vociferous voice for the oppressed and will continue to do so for the welfare of refugees across the globe. I pray that may peace prevail, oppression be eliminated and every human being feel solace and peace across the globe.”

She also congratulated the Pakistan hockey team on reaching the final of the FIH Nations Cup. She expressed happiness over Pakistan’s team clinching victory in the semi-final against France. She appreciated the excellent performance of national hockey team captain Imad Butt and Rana Waheed Ashraf and other players.

Later, she expressed grief over the death of three tourists belonging to Lahore due to collapse of a glacier near Mansehra. She expressed sympathies for the bereaved families.