European Parliament’s Sub-Committee on Human Rights calls on the Adviser

(2013-08-27)

A delegation of the European Parliament’s Sub-Committee on Human Rights led by Ms. Ana Gomes called on the Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs Mr. Sartaj Aziz today. She was accompanied by Mr. Andrzej Grzyb, Member of the European Parliament.

The Adviser to the Prime Minister highlighted the efforts of the new democratic government to improve the living standards of the people and protect their fundamental rights. Mr. Aziz said that special emphasis has been made by the government to protect the rights of women, minorities and children. The Adviser stressed that despite challenges, the resolve of the government to protect the human rights is unwavering.

The delegation also called on the Speaker of the National Assembly. The Speaker said that the Parliament was fully seized of the human rights situation in the country. The Speaker expressed the hope that the first ever democratic transition from one civilian government to another would strengthen democratic processes in the country.

In a meeting with the EU Parliamentarians, the Foreign Secretary apprised the Delegation on the efforts made by the government in the field of human rights in particular to strengthen human rights infrastructure in the country.

Ms. Ana Gomes acknowledged the important steps taken by the government for the promotion and protection of human rights in the country. The delegation also exchanged views on human rights situation in the country.

The EU delegation also held meetings with the Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and National Harmony, the Secretary Law Justice and Human Rights, Chairperson of the National Commission on the Status of Women, and members of the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights and Women Parliamentary Caucus.

The delegation is visiting Pakistan from 26 – 28 August 2013. During the visit, the delegation is interacting with government functionaries and representatives of political parties and civil society organizations on the subject of human rights.

Subcommittee on Human Rights works under the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the European Parliament.

Islamabad
27 August 2013

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