Federal Minister for Human Rights Senator Kamran Michael on Tuesday assured the visiting EU GSP Plus Review Mission that the government was making all out efforts to ensure protection of human rights. "We are fully committed to implement the United Nations Conventions in pursuance to the constitution of the Pakistan and international commitments as it is our national responsibility," he addedThe delegation was led by Gus Houttuin from European External Actions Services (EEAS). Dietmar Krissler, Andreas Julin, DG Trade, Rudi Delarue, DG Employment, Additional Secretary Humaira Azam and other officials of the Ministry also attended the meeting.
Director General Human Rights Hassan Mangi briefed the delegation regarding GSP Plus status and implementation of human rights conventions. The delegation was also told about prevailing human rights situation in the country including implementations of laws, policy and measures.
Senator Kamran Michael said that GSP plus status has not only improved business and trade activities and relations but is also a tool for supporting positive change in Pakistan. Constitution of Pakistan grantees human rights protection and Ministry of Human Rights ensures its implementation.
Federal Minister further stated that steps have been taken through comprehensive strategy to ensure the protection of human rights including the rights of women, children and minorities - steps which included Hindu Marriage Act, 2016, Christian Marriage and Divorce (Amendment) Bill, 2016, Sindh Hindu Marriage Acts, 2016, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) Protection of Communal Properties of Minority Community Act, 2014.
Members of the delegation appreciated the endeavours of incumbent government especially the Ministry of Human Rights for the Protection and promotion of Human Rights and assured their full support in this regard. The EU delegation also held meetings with the officials of Narcotics Control Division, and National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and discussed issues relating to discouraging export of narcotic substances to Europe, and investigation by NAB.