ISLAMABAD, March 25 The United Nations system in Pakistan remembered its kidnapped official John Solecki on the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members observed all over the world on Wednesday.

Reiterating its stand for a direct contact with the kidnappers, the UNHCR said in a statement that it had no information about Mr Solecki who was kidnapped in Quetta on February 20.

“It has been weeks since there has been any positive sign of life of John and we need to know that he is still alive and the real state of his wellbeing,” the statement said.

“It is deeply troubling to hear through the media that the group holding John has said that his health is deteriorating. We urge the group to get in touch with us directly to discuss the immediate release of John so he can get the urgent professional medical attention he needs in a hospital or clinic,” the UNHCR said. “The entire responsibility for John's wellbeing rests with the group holding him.”

The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members draws the attention of international community to risks faced throughout the world by UN staff and peacekeepers and colleagues in the non-governmental community and the press.