ICRC head called on Shireen Mazari

ISLAMABAD, Mar 11 (APP):Head of the Delegation of International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Pakistan, Mr Reto Stocker had called on the Federal Minister for Human Rights Dr Shireen Mazari here on Monday.

On this occasion, various issues related to human rights were discussed including the issue of the Pakistani prisoners abroad and protection of their rights, said a press release.

Shireen Mazari also raised the issue of Shakirullah, a Pakistani prisoner who was tortured and killed under state patronage in Indian jail. She said India has failed to protect right to life of Pakistani prisoner.

Dr Mazari drew attention of stoker towards the sufferings of the Pakistani prisoners in the jails of foreign countries despite completing their sentences. She stressed on the need to resolve the issues of Pakistani prisoners abroad.

During the meeting, Shireen Mazari said her ministry was taking pragmatic steps to ensure the protection and provision of human rights and apprised the delegation about the steps which have been taken.

She said that we were focusing on the implementation of existing laws and also paying attention to devise new legislation adding that she was working on various new bills including the Anti Torture and Custodial Death; these bills will be tabled in parliament soon.

ICRC Head of Delegation appreciated the endeavors of incumbent government especially the Ministry of Human Rights for the protection and promotion of human rights and assured his full support and cooperation in the cause and protection of human rights.