Canadian High Commissioner Leslie Scanlon called on Federal Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazir Tarar on 6th July 2023. Both sides discussed the long term benefits of partnership and cooperation between Canada and Pakistan in terms of mining projects in Balochistan. The Canadian high commissioner also appreciated the Balochistan govt the way they are aiding and facilitating and cooperating with the mining projects with Barrick Gold corporation. Steps towards the development of the region through renewable energy projects are also commendable. While discussing civilian trials under the Army Act, the honorable Law Minister explained that the Act and rules made thereunder guarantees rights of the accused such as engaging a counsel of his choice to engage, right to have access to family members or friend, and right to file an appeal etc. Individuals have also right to move Constitutional courts against the judgments of military court. The Law Minister mentioned that after the unfortunate Army Public School massacre in 2014, it became indispensable to amend the law and to deal with terrorists organizations under the Army Act. The honorable Law Minister also expressed his deep concern about the growing Islamophobia in the world in particular quoting the recent incident of desecretion of Holy Quran in Sweden and said that this is an evident example of Islamophobia prevailing in the West. The Govt has decided to take part in the protest to convey its message and to keep things within the bounds. Candaian high commissioner also informed the law minister that Canadian govt has recently appointed a special representative to combat Islamophobia and she assured that Canadian govt will be pushing it to have a special mandate against Islamophobia. Lastly talking about the political situation the honorable Law minister assured that the elections will be on time and strengthening democracy is the top priority of the govt.
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