News Desk
Islamabad, 13 September 2024:
Ambassador Frans van Daele, the European Union’s Special Envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief (FoRB), has concluded his week-long visit to Pakistan. His visit is part of the EU’s ongoing efforts to promote religious freedoms and address related challenges globally, with Pakistan being a significant partner in this strategic engagement, states the presser
During his stay, Ambassador van Daele held high-level meetings with key Pakistani officials, including Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain. His discussions focused on the current state of religious freedom in Pakistan, highlighting areas of concern outlined in the EU’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP+) monitoring report from November 2023.
The Special Envoy stressed the importance of Pakistan’s continued implementation of international conventions relevant to religious freedoms. He noted that the next GSP+ monitoring mission is expected in early 2025, emphasizing that ongoing reforms will be crucial for Pakistan’s reapplication to the trade scheme once the new GSP regulation is in effect.
Van Daele also engaged with local communities in Punjab, visiting Jaranwala and Rabwah, two areas known for their religious diversity. In Lahore, he met with Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, Punjab’s Minister for Minorities Affairs, and Dr. Usman Anwar, Inspector General of Police, to discuss law enforcement’s role in protecting religious freedoms.
In Islamabad, Ambassador van Daele thanked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for facilitating his visit during a meeting with Pakistan’s newly appointed Foreign Secretary, Ms. Amna Baloch.
The EU Special Envoy’s mandate includes engaging with governments, civil society, and religious leaders to promote awareness and address violations of religious freedom. His visit comes at a time of heightened attention to religious tolerance and diversity in Pakistan, with the EU remaining committed to strengthening its cooperation with the country, said the press release.