The Archbishop of Canterbury is urging European leaders to "commit to joint action" to help refugees fleeing conflict zones in the Middle East.

In a statement released by Lambeth Palace, the Most Revd Justin Welby said: "My heart is broken by the images and stories of men, women and children who have risked their lives to escape conflict, violence and persecution.

"Now, perhaps more than ever in post-war Europe, we need to commit to joint action across Europe, acknowledging our common responsibility and our common humanity."

The Archbishop added that the British have a strong tradition of harbouring those in need.

"The people of these islands have a long and wonderful history of offering shelter and refuge, going back centuries – whether it be Huguenot Christians, Jewish refugees, Ugandan Asians, Vietnamese boat people or many, many more," he said.

"It has always been controversial at the time it happened, always been seen as too difficult. Yet each time we have risen to the challenge and our country has been blessed by the result."

The Revd Welby said it was critical that European countries united to offer current refugees aid.

"We cannot turn our backs on this crisis," he said. "We must respond with compassion. But we must also not be naïve in claiming to have the answers to end it.

"It requires a pan-European response – which means a commitment to serious-minded diplomatic and political debate, but not at the expense of practical action that meets the immediate needs of those most in need of our help."