The United States Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom Sam Brownback concluded his two-day visit and discussed with Pakistani leadership as to how the two countries can work together to advance religious freedom and promote interfaith dialogue.
According to a statement issued by the US Embassy here, the United States Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom Samuel D Brownback visited Islamabad from February 22-23. During his stay in Islamabad, it stated, Ambassador Brownback met with Foreign Minister Shah Qureshi, Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Noor-ul-Haq Qadri, and Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari.
"During these meetings, Ambassador Brownback emphasised the importance the United States places on religious freedom, the protection of religious minorities, and respect," the statement stated. It further stated that Ambassador Brownback discussed ways the United States could partner with Pakistan in promoting international religious freedom and inter-faith dialogue, seeking opportunities to protect persecuted Muslims, Christians, and people of other faiths in South and Central Asia and throughout the world.
Ambassador Brownback also met religious and civil society leaders, including a visit to the Eidgah Shrine in Rawalpindi where he met with Pir Muhammad Naqib-ur-Rehman, Custodian of Eidgah Sharif. "He highlighted the United States' respect for Islam and Pakistan's religious diversity and commitment to continue to engage with faith leaders in Pakistan and throughout the world," it added.