To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what representations he has made to his Pakistani counterpart on (a) the treatment of religious minorities and (b) restrictions on religious expression for Hindu students in educational institutions in that country.
Answered on
12 March 2025
Promoting freedom of religion or belief is a key part of the UK's diplomatic engagement overseas. I underlined the importance of religious tolerance and harmony when I met Pakistan's Human Rights Minister on 19 November 2024, although I did not raise religious expression within educational institutions specifically. The British High Commission in Islamabad continues to promote the rights of marginalised groups, including Hindus and other religious minorities, at the highest levels. For example, on 3 March 2025, the British High Commissioner raised the rights of the Ahmadi community in a meeting with Prime Minister Sharif. UK programming also facilitates interfaith dialogue by convening influential community and faith leaders and minority representatives to resolve local issues.