ISLAMABAD – In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral cooperation on human rights, Archbishop Tapio Luoma, Head of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, the Federal Minister for Human Rights. The delegation included the Ambassador of Finland to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Hannu Ripatti.
The meeting served as a platform for a constructive dialogue focused on key areas of mutual interest, including the promotion of human rights, the advancement of interfaith harmony, and the encouragement of peaceful coexistence within Pakistan.
Archbishop Luoma expressed his appreciation for the Government of Pakistan’s commitment to human rights, specifically noting the establishment of a dedicated federal ministry. He highlighted that such a specialized institution is a distinctive initiative, as many countries lack a comparable, centralized body for the protection and promotion of human rights.
During the briefing, the Ministry’s structure, operational mandate, and its network of attached departments and statutory commissions were outlined. The discussion emphasized the Ministry’s multifaceted role in safeguarding fundamental freedoms, monitoring human rights violations, conducting public awareness campaigns, and coordinating with provincial authorities and civil society organizations.
The Archbishop welcomed the Ministry’s comprehensive approach to protecting vulnerable segments of society, with particular focus on minority rights, women’s rights, child protection, and the rights of persons with disabilities.
Both sides also engaged in a substantive exchange of ideas on enhancing interfaith dialogue and fostering greater social inclusion. They underscored the critical importance of collaborative initiatives that build understanding and mutual respect among the nation’s diverse communities. A shared commitment was reaffirmed to strengthen social cohesion and ensure all citizens can live with dignity, equality, and security.
In his concluding remarks, Archbishop Luoma commended the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to create an inclusive society and conveyed his optimism for future cooperation between the Government of Pakistan, civil society, and international partners to further the shared goals of human rights and peaceful coexistence.
BY: The Times Union
