play host

[KLPNO]

Hello everyone

I'd like o ask about the meaning of "play host" in the following context:

The United Kingdom also has a seasonal workers scheme which allows workers from other European nations like Bulgaria and Ukraine. The Philippines has a bilateral labour agreement with Switzerland that provides trainees access to programmes and allows for an exchange of professionals and technical trainees for short term employment.

BLA’s however take a long time to negotiate and not many countries are interested in engaging in this mode of relationships specially in the region of the world which plays host to millions of migrant workers – the Middle East.

Do I understand correctly that "play host" means "receive migrant workers"?

[Anglika]

Essentially, yes, it does.