In the year 2000, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees observes its 50th Anniversary. In 2001, the UN Convention on the Status of Refugees will be 50 year old. The longevity of the UN\'s efforts on behalf of refugees is not in itself a cause for celebration. What we could be proud of, is our ability to offer refugees educational and other opportunities, and the means to achieve these opportunities. This will help them not to be a burden, and not be seen as one. It will also help them make positive contributions to the communities giving them asylum or - upon return to their countries of origin. Their courage, determination and the contribution they have made to society throughout the world deserves respect and should be celebrated.Over the years, Pakistan has been an exemplary asylum country, which in the true spirit of Islamic generosity has hosted one of the world\'s largest and oldest refugee groups. The government and the people of Pakistan have made enormous sacrifices to accommodate the massive influx of refuges from war-torn Afghanistan.
The commitment and co-operation of the government of Pakistan has made it possible to avert a tragedy by providing protection, and together with others, delivering urgent humanitarian assistance to the Afghani refugees. Although many Afghans have been able to return home, more than 1.2 million Afghan refugees remain in Pakistan.
The issuance of these special stamps to commemorate the 50th anniversary of UNHCR and the UN Convention on the Status of Refugees is yet another sign of Pakistan\'s continued support for the work of UNHCR and commitment to the institution of asylum.
To commemorate the 50the Anniversary of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Pakistan Post Office is issuing a commemorative postage stamp of Rs. 2/-denomination on December 14, 2000.
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