The Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Mr. Timothy Kane, called on the Federal Minister for Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, today in Islamabad. Secretary of the Ministry of Human Rights, Mr. Abdul Khalique Shaikh, was also present during the meeting. The discussion focused on enhancing bilateral collaboration to promote and protect human rights. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation and advancing inclusive, rights-based governance. The High Commissioner acknowledged Pakistan’s recent progress in human rights legislation, policy reforms, and institutional strengthening. He appreciated the Government’s continued efforts to protect vulnerable and marginalized communities and affirmed Australia’s support for Pakistan in advancing shared human rights priorities. The Minister welcomed the High Commissioner and reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to uphold equal rights for all citizens. He highlighted the ongoing implementation of the National Action Plan on Human Rights, including initiatives to strengthen institutions, improve access to justice, and enhance compliance with international human rights treaties. The Minister further briefed the High Commissioner on Pakistan’s strengthened treaty reporting processes through the National Mechanism for Reporting and Follow-up, including recent submissions and preparations for upcoming reviews under CRC, CRPD, ICCPR, and CAT. He confirmed the Government’s strong commitment to fulfilling its international obligations. During the meeting, the Minister also noted that national human rights bodies—including the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), and National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC)—continue to function effectively. Recent constitutional and legal developments aimed at strengthening rights protection were also discussed. Child rights remained a key focus of the discussion. The Minister briefed the High Commissioner on recent progress, including the Islamabad Capital Territory Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2025, and strengthened mechanisms such as the Zainab Alert, Response and Recovery System for missing children. He also underscored ongoing efforts to promote digital safety, including awareness campaigns, digital literacy initiatives, and collaboration with international platforms such as Meta’s Take It Down portal for reporting harmful content involving children. The Minister welcomed the Australian Government’s recent decision to restrict social media access for children under sixteen, describing it as a timely measure for safeguarding their wellbeing. Both sides expressed strong commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation on human rights and reaffirmed their shared resolve to promote dignity, equality, and inclusion for all.
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