Federal Minister for Human Rights Dr Shireen M Mazari on Thursday discussed bilateral relations between Turkey and Pakistan with the ambassador. She discussed these matters in a meeting with Turkish Ambassador Mustafa Yardakul in Islamabad. Senior officials of the ministry were also present on the occasion. During the meeting, both sides further shared the common political experiences and also discussed the issues that both Pakistan and Turkey confront with the large influx of refugees. The ambassador was apprised about prevailing human rights situation in the country including the measures and steps that have been taken by the government particularly Human Rights Ministry for the promotion and protection of human rights. Addressing the meeting, Minister Dr Shireen M Mazari said that steps are being taken to ensure the promotion and protection of human rights adding that Constitution of Pakistan guarantees human rights protection and “we ensure its implementation as it is our national obligation”. She highlighted that “we are focusing on how to take forward and further improve and strengthen the bilateral relations of Pakistan and Turkey to ensure the prosperity and progress of both the countries”. She said Pakistan and Turkey were brotherly countries and “our friendship is gaining strength with every passing day. We are wholeheartedly working together in different fields to further promote this relation”. Mustafa Yardakul assured the HR minister that existing cooperation between the two countries will continue and appreciated the endeavours of the incumbent government especially the concerned Ministry for the Protection & Promotion of Human Rights in this regard. Published in Daily Times, September 7th 2018.