Focus on Collaboration for Minority Welfare, Religious Tourism, and Digital Empowerment
By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs and Human Rights, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, held an important meeting with the US Consul General in Lahore, Ms. Kristin Hawkins, accompanied by representatives from the US Embassy, including Ms. Han Nee, Ms. Usmei, and Mr. Nikhil Lakhanpal while the secretary HR Farid Ahmed Tarrar and DS Rizwana Naveed were also present in the meeting.
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The meeting took place at the Minister’s office and focused on strengthening mutual cooperation in the areas of minority rights, interfaith harmony, education, religious tourism, and digital empowerment.
During the meeting, Provincial Minister Ramesh Singh Arora briefed the US delegation on the Government of Punjab’s ongoing initiatives under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. He highlighted the provincial government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring equal rights and opportunities for religious minorities, with a strong emphasis on inclusive governance and social cohesion.
The Minister elaborated on the government’s proactive policies aimed at minority inclusion, including employment quotas, educational scholarships, and financial assistance for the renovation and maintenance of religious sites.
He also emphasized the rich and diverse religious heritage of Punjab, and its immense potential to promote interfaith harmony and religious tourism. The Minister welcomed international collaboration for the preservation and promotion of sacred sites belonging to Christian, Sikh, Hindu, and other communities.
Both sides explored opportunities for joint initiatives in the field of digital education, especially targeted at minority youth in underprivileged areas. Minister Arora underlined Punjab’s focus on expanding e-learning platforms and digital literacy programs to bridge the educational gap and empower the younger generation.
The meeting further reaffirmed the importance of fostering interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence. The US Consul General appreciated the Government of Punjab’s efforts in promoting minority rights and advancing a culture of tolerance, diversity, and mutual respect.
Minister Arora expressed his gratitude to the United States and other international partners for their continued support in strengthening democratic institutions, civil society, and development-focused initiatives in Punjab. He expressed optimism for future collaboration in capacity building, cultural exchange, and comprehensive programs for minority development.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing a shared commitment to sustained engagement and partnership for the inclusive development and welfare of all communities in Punjab.
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