August 4, 2021
Turkey: Afghan Refugees and Migrants
It is not the USG’s policy to encourage or direct individuals seeking protection to specific safe havens, including Turkey, nor did we. We regret the concerns that the statements have raised regarding Afghan travel to Turkey. We thank Turkey for its substantial humanitarian efforts in hosting over four million refugees - more than any other country in the world – who have fled Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, and elsewhere.
The United States understands and appreciates the role that Turkey has played in hosting migrants and refugees over the past decade, and we will continue to support our NATO Ally where appropriate.
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