Lahore: In a significant diplomatic engagement, Mehran Movahed far, the Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Iran, met with Punjab’s Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs, Ramesh Singh Arora, at the Department of Human Rights. The meeting focused on fostering cultural connections, enhancing minority rights protection, and promoting regional peace through interfaith dialogue.
According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the discussions emphasized on strengthening cooperation in cultural relations and protection of minority rights. Both leaders expressed their commitment to promoting tolerance, interfaith harmony, and peace in the region. The talks also covered collaborative efforts in interfaith work, with both parties pledging to continue their engagement on these critical issues.
Provincial Minister Ramesh Singh Arora lauded Iran’s efforts in advancing religious harmony and cultural cooperation. He highlighted the Punjab government’s initiatives in safeguarding the welfare of religious minorities, including the celebration of Minorities Day at an official level for the first time in Punjab’s history and a significant increase in budget allocation for minority welfare. Arora underscored the shared values between Islam and Sikhism, particularly the emphasis on monotheism, and noted the historical reverence of the Sikh community for the Persian language, citing Guru Gobind Singh’s Persian-written travelogue.
Mehran Movahed far, while congratulating Singh on his recent civil award, acknowledged his contributions as Minister for Religious Minorities. He shared insights into the peaceful coexistence of religious communities in Iran, mentioning the presence of 600 churches and a significant Christian population, alongside a thriving Sikh community. He highlighted the symbolic proximity of a mosque and a church in one Iranian city and mentioned the representation of minorities in the Iranian parliament as evidence of Iran’s commitment to protecting the rights of religious minorities.
The Iranian Consul General extended an invitation to Ramesh Singh to attend the upcoming Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) ceremony at Khana Farhang Iran and proposed a visit to Iran, which was graciously accepted by Singh. In a reciprocal gesture, Singh invited Movahed far to visit Kartarpur, which was warmly received, with the Consul General promising a visit soon.
The meeting concluded with Mehran Movahed far presenting a special Iranian sweet to the Provincial Minister and expressing hopes for continued peace and prosperity for the people of Pakistan. The meeting also saw the presence of Secretary of Human Rights Ali Bahadur, Director of Human Rights Muhammad Yousuf, and other relevant officials, underscoring the importance of the discussions.