Sikh delegation meets Pakistan minority affairs minister in Washington

A delegation of Sikh leaders, led by Washington-based United Sikhs, recently met Pakistani Minister of Minority Affairs Shahbaz Bhatti to discuss minority rights and issues pertaining to humanitarian aid relief for them in that country.

The delegation discussed how Sikhs in the US and elsewhere can advise and promote dialogue between the Sikh community and Pakistan to recognise, restore and preserve
historic sites and Gurdwaras, a media release said.

United Sikhs, in a statement, said that Bhatti urged the Sikhs to continue working together with the Government of Pakistan to resolve these important concerns, and stressed the importance of international Sikh communities' involvement in advising and supporting the Government's  efforts.

Another prominent issue discussed in the meeting was the introduction of the Minority Protection Act in the Pakistani Parliament that will safeguard the rights of all religious and other minorities in Pakistan. He said this will reserve jobs in all levels of Pakistani Government.

Commenting on the meeting, Balwinder Singh, president, Sikh Gurdwara of Greater Washington stated: "We appreciate Pakistan's understanding for our religion and hope that they will provide the Sikhs full co-operation and sand support to maintain our history and preserve our roots."