The head of Governance Group of DFID Ms. Honor Flanagan calls on Minister for Minorities

Lahore: Provincial Minister for Minorities Affairs & Human Rights Khalil Tahir Sandhu has said that cooperation between Pakistan and Britain in various sectors will be further promoted.

He was talking to the head of Governance Group of DFID Ms. Honor Flanagen and Ben French who met him here today. The Minister informed the delegation about the steps taken by Punjab government for the welfare of minorities, development of health, education and investment sectors, empowerment of women, promotion of technology and protection of human rights. He said that youth can play an important role in the protection of human rights, elimination of gender discrimination, promotion of religious harmony and progress of the country. He said that minorities are thankful to the government for allocating a five percent quota for them in government jobs.

Khalil Tahir Sandhu further informed the delegation about setting up of religious harmony committees at district level. He said that minorities have equal rights under the constitution of Pakistan and are playing an important role in national development. He said that strengthening of economy is essential for stability of the country. He said that topics on human rights and religious harmony have been included in the syllabus. He said that change in social mindset is essential and it can only be brought through education.

The Minister also informed the delegation about the measures taken by the government for the elimination of child labour. He said that further measures will also be taken for the welfare and uplift of minorities. The DFID delegation appreciated the steps taken by Punjab government for the development of education, health and information technology sectors as well as empowerment of women.

Deputy Registrar High Court Johnson Barnard and Javed William were also present on the occasion.