ISLAMABAD: Canadian High Commissioner Leslie Scanlon and Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazir Tarar discussed long term benefits of partnership and cooperation between Canada and Pakistan in terms of mining projects in Balochistan.

Canadian High Commissioner appreciated Balochistan government for aiding, facilitating and cooperating in mining projects with Barrick Gold Corporation. She said that steps towards development of region through renewable energy projects were also commendable.

While discussing civilian trials under Army Act, Law Minister explained that Act and rules made thereunder were guaranteeing rights of accused such as engaging counsel of his choice to engage, right to have access to family members or friends and right to file an appeal etc. Individuals have also right to move constitutional courts against judgments of military court, he added.

Minister mentioned that after unfortunate Army Public School massacre in 2014, it became indispensable to amend law and to deal with terrorists organizations under Army Act.

He expressed his deep concern about growing Islamophobia in world in particular quoting recent incident of desecration of Holy Quran in Sweden and said that this was an evident example of Islamophobia prevailing in West. Government had decided to take part in protest to convey its message and to keep things within bounds, he added.

High Commissioner informed Law Minister that Canadian government had recently appointed special representative to combat Islamophobia and she assured that Canadian government would be pushing it to have special mandate against Islamophobia. Lastly, talking about political situation, Law Minister assured that elections would be held on time and strengthening democracy was top priority of government.