LAHORE: Punjab Minorities and Human Rights Minister Khalil Tahir Sandhu said that Norway and Pakistan have great economic and cultural ties and both countries have supported each other for promotion of religious harmony, peace and solidarity.

Speaking at a reception hosted in honour of Archbishop of Norway Helga Haugland Byfuglien and her delegation here on Monday, the minister said Norway had extended full cooperation during earthquakes and floods along with other welfare projects in Pakistan, especially in the telecommunication sector, and provision of clean drinking water to the people of remote and hilly areas.

He said minorities in Pakistan enjoyed legal rights and had been playing an important role in the development and prosperity of the country.

Archbishop Byfuglien said that the role of Norwegian church in building interfaith harmony in Pakistan was significant. She stressed upon the need to promote mutual understanding through dialogue between people from different cultures and religions to ensure peace in the world.

Published in Dawn January 17th, 2017