Federal Minister for Human Rights Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar met with Mr. Thomas Rachel, Federal Government Commissioner for Freedom of Religion or Belief, Germany, who was accompanied by German Ambassador to Pakistan H.E. Ms. Ina Lepel.
During the meeting, the two sides held a detailed exchange of views on the rule of law, human rights, freedom of religion or belief, minority rights, freedom of expression, child marriage, forced marriage, interfaith harmony, and Pakistan’s GSP+ framework with the European Union, among other matters of mutual interest.
German Commissioner for Freedom of Religion or Belief Thomas Rachel appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting peace in the region and its contribution towards the principles of the United Nations and the rule of law. He expressed interest in Pakistan’s legislative and institutional measures for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The Federal Minister said that Pakistan had faced complex security challenges over the past several decades, particularly the impact of wars in Afghanistan, terrorism and extremism, which had affected Pakistan’s social, cultural and religious environment. Pakistan had paid a heavy human and economic price in the fight against terrorism.
He said that despite the challenging security environment, the government was taking measures to strengthen the legal and institutional framework for human rights, freedom of religion or belief, freedom of expression, political activities, minority rights, and the protection of women and children.
Federal Minister for Human Rights briefed the delegation on progress regarding the establishment of the National Commission for Minority Rights. He said that following the relevant legislation, the process for constitution of the Commission was underway at the parliamentary level. He expressed hope that the Commission would play an effective and independent role in protecting the rights of minorities.
The meeting also discussed recent institutional developments concerning the rights of journalists, as well as the role of the National Commission for Human Rights and the National Commission on the Status of Women.
The Federal Minister termed legislation aimed at preventing child marriage an important development, saying that its primary objective was to protect children, particularly young girls, from early marriage, health-related problems and other social difficulties.
Federal Minister for Human Rights described the European Union’s GSP+ framework not merely as a trade facility for Pakistan but also as a useful incentive mechanism for promoting human rights, the rule of law and institutional reforms.
He said that the requirements under GSP+ provided an additional incentive for reforms relating to human rights and fundamental freedoms in Pakistan, particularly helping protect the rights of vulnerable, disadvantaged and marginalized segments of society. The Federal Minister said that Pakistan did not view GSP+ merely from the perspective of trade and business, but also attached importance to its human and social dimensions.
German Commissioner Thomas Rachel emphasized the importance of interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance, saying that mutual respect among individuals and communities belonging to different religious and belief backgrounds was essential for global peace.
He said that Germany was also home to different religious communities and that improving relations among different faiths required continuous efforts. Religious leaders had a responsibility to promote respect, tolerance and peaceful coexistence with other religions and groups within society.
Both sides agreed that international cooperation and sustained dialogue were essential for the promotion of human rights, freedom of religion or belief, the rule of law, interfaith harmony and peace.
The meeting concluded in a cordial, friendly and constructive atmosphere.
