Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

The United States also is deeply concerned about the plight of approximately 10,000 Afghan refugees on the islands in the Panj river between Tajikistan and Afghanistan who are in an increasingly desperate situation that requires humanitarian assistance.

UNHCR has determined that the best way to meet their needs and to protect their safety is to move them through the border to a secure facility inside Tajikistan.

UNHCR has requested that the Tajik government respond positively to this crisis and offer the Afghan refugees sanctuary.

We understand the very real concerns of the Tajik government for the welfare of its population, including large numbers of displaced persons and refugees. 

We urge the Government of Tajikistan to allow the refugees from the Panj river to enter Tajikistan.  We have a shared obligation to respond to their desperate situation.  We understand that Tajikistan is concerned about the resources needed to provide for refugees.  In this regard, we note that the US has been providing assistance to refugees and displaced persons in both Afghanistan and Tajikistan, through the World Food Program, other international organizations, and non-governmental organizations.  The United States will continue and augment these efforts and work with the international community to assist the Government of Tajikistan should large numbers of refugees arrive in Tajikistan.

We urge other countries to provide relief assistance should the refugees enter the country, and to support Tajikistan's efforts to care for them. 

Finally, given the role of Russian border guards along the Tajik/Afghan border, we would welcome Russian assistance in implementing any decision by Tajikistan to open the border and grant asylum to refugees.

Thank you.