Islamabad: British Minister of State Stephen Doughty met with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Law & Justice and Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, to discuss a range of issues, including human rights, human trafficking, child marriage prevention, and the Indus Waters Treaty. Both parties emphasized the importance of regional peace and security in their discussions.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting highlighted Pakistan’s concerns over India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, which has significant implications for the country’s agriculture and food security. Senator Tarar stressed the treaty’s importance to Pakistan’s economy and the well-being of its population, urging adherence to international laws and existing frameworks to resolve water-related disputes.

Doughty acknowledged the critical nature of water issues and the necessity for collaborative efforts, connecting water security with agriculture, human security, and disaster response. The dialogue also addressed combating child sexual exploitation, human trafficking, and forced marriages, with Pakistan detailing its legal initiatives, such as setting the marriageable age at 18 and enhancing marriage registration systems.

Further discussions included measures to tighten immigration controls and preempt human trafficking. Efforts to centralize and automate access to criminal records were highlighted, aiming to improve international information-sharing. Both ministers committed to ongoing cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including human rights and protection measures for women and children.