QUETTA, Feb 20: The United Nations has again urged the kidnappers of John Solecki, the UN refugee agency’s representative in Quetta, to release him immediately.

A spokesman for the UNHCR said in a statement here on Friday the UN was aware of a message released on Wednesday evening through the media and had taken it seriously.

“We are again grateful for the support of the leaders of Balochistan for the safe release of John, and acknowledge the concerns of the Balochistan community,” said the statement.

“The UN is working on appropriate ways to address the concerns, including sharing information with the relevant authorities such as the newly established federal ministry of human rights. Separately, it is noteworthy that the UN signed an agreement earlier this year with the ministry of human rights, in support of strengthening the promotion of human rights throughout Pakistan.

“The UN remains extremely concerned about John Solecki’s health, which we are told was deteriorating. John has a serious medical condition which may now be endangering his life -- a development that would do nothing to help the cause of those keeping him or those among us who want John’s safe return as soon as possible.

“The United Nations once again appeals to those having John to contact us, if not directly, then through a trusted intermediary, so that the situation can be resolved in a peaceful dialogue.

“John Solecki is a humanitarian worker, serving Afghan refugees and host communities as well as Pakistanis affected by earthquakes and floods in Balochistan. We appreciate the continued engagement of the people of Pakistan in securing John’s safe release, so that the UNHCR can continue its humanitarian work.”