ISLAMABAD: Ambassador Frans van Daele, the EU Special Envoy for the Promotion of Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) outside the European Union, has wrapped up his week-long visit to Pakistan. FoRB remains a top priority for the EU, especially in the context of its strategic partnership with Pakistan.
During his visit, Ambassador van Daele engaged with a range of stakeholders, including Federal and Provincial Government officials, Parliament members, religious leaders, NGOs, human rights defenders, and local communities. The focus of these interactions was to discuss the current state of freedom of religion and belief in Pakistan and to promote respect for religious diversity.
The Special Envoy held discussions with key figures such as Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, Human Rights and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and Federal Minister for Religious Affairs. They addressed challenges related to freedom of religion and belief, referencing concerns outlined in the latest GSP+ monitoring report from November 2023.
Ambassador van Daele highlighted that the next GSP+ monitoring mission is expected in early 2025 and urged Pakistani authorities to continue implementing international conventions to support Pakistan’s reapplication for the trade scheme under the new GSP Regulation. He reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting and enhancing cooperation with Pakistan.
The visit began in Punjab, where van Daele met with local communities in Jaranwala and Rabwah. In Lahore, he held discussions with Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, Minister for Minorities Affairs, and Dr. Usman Anwar, Inspector General of Police Punjab. He also praised the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for facilitating his visit during a meeting with Pakistan’s newly appointed Foreign Secretary, Ms. Amna Baloch.
The Special Envoy’s role involves raising awareness and engaging with both state and non-state actors, including civil society, faith-based organizations, and non-confessional groups, to address and prevent violations of freedom of religion.
