EU, Canadian diplomats meet Law Minister, discuss human rights

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Law and Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, on Thursday met a high-level delegation of ambassadors and senior diplomats from the European Union (EU) and European countries, led by EU Ambassador to Pakistan Raimundas Karoblis.
The delegation comprised Alexandra Berg von Linde, Ambassador of Sweden; Per Albert Ilsaas, Ambassador of Norway; Nicolas Galey, Ambassador of France; Declan Johnston, Chargé d’Affaires of Ireland; Robert-Jan Siegert, Ambassador of the Netherlands; Tarik Ali Khan, High Commissioner of Canada; Ms Fenny Hum, Political Counsellor at the High Commission of Canada; and Ladislav Steinhübel, Ambassador of the Czech Republic.
During the meeting, both sides held a comprehensive exchange of views on Pakistan-EU relations, the GSP+ framework, human rights, the rule of law, and avenues for enhanced cooperation. They reaffirmed the importance of sustained engagement to further strengthen longstanding ties.
The visiting delegation appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to advance human rights, particularly the establishment of the National Commission for Minorities and the enactment of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act. Progress on issues related to the death penalty moratorium and broader human rights commitments also came under discussion.
Senator Tarar briefed the delegation on the government’s ongoing legal and institutional reforms aimed at strengthening the protection of fundamental rights, improving access to justice, and reinforcing the rule of law. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to upholding human rights while pursuing effective counter-terrorism measures in line with the Constitution and the law.
The minister assured the delegation of Pakistan’s continued cooperation and constructive engagement with the European Union on matters of shared interest, including human rights and legal reforms.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides expressing their commitment to deepen cooperation and maintain regular dialogue to advance shared objectives.