Delegation of European Union led by first secretary rule of law and human rights Ms. Ingeborg Zoran called on Punjab Minister for Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Ijaz Alam Augustine at his camp office on Wednesday. In the meeting, issues discussed regarding GSP plus status, Pak-Europe relations, Kashmir issue, human rights and protection of minorities. Punjab Minister Ijaz Alam Augustine said that the Government of Punjab is fully aware of its nternational obligations and Ministry for Human Rights & Minorities Affairs is looking very closely to the various Acts and legislations such as torture, capital punishment, women’s rights and child abuse. He said that the way European Parliament is supporting Pakistan for extension in GSP- Plus status, we are grateful to you. Today Pakistan has become a peaceful country where investors and tourists from across the world are provided complete security and other facilities. He said that Pakistan had always talked about peace but India’s war hysteria, Kashmir issue and tension in the region have endangered the peace. It is the need of the hour that European Parliament and other international organisations play their role in settlement of Kashmir issue. He also briefed about the role of Punjab Government For Minorities and initiatives of provincial government for formation of public human right defenders as well as committees in all 36 districts of Punjab, job opportunities for minorities, merit scholarships for minority youth and financial assistance, marriage registrations facilitated by law for minorities, legislation against domestic violence and forced conversions, legislation in line with the National Action Plan against hate speech using loudspeakers, remission for minority prisoners passed since 19 October 2009, action against child labour and child abuse, formulation of committees against the misuse of blasphemy law, legislation against acid throwing and domestic violence against women, protection for lawyers and judges dealing with sensitive cases and a number of other important steps to eliminate discrimination and injustice. Delegation applauded the efforts of Punjab Government for the protection of human rights and assured fully cooperation in future to protect human rights especially for the freedom of innocent Kashmiris. On the occasion secretary HR&MA Dr. Irshad Ahmed, Deputy Secretary M.Youasf, Javed Wlliam from faces of Pakistan and other relevant persons were present.
