Kartarpur Corridor Access Raised During Pakistan–Türkiye Talks

Punjab’s Model of Interfaith Harmony Gains International Recognition: Turkish Consul General Meets Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs
Lahore (Nazrana Times) Ali Imran Chattha 

Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs, Ramesh Singh Arora, held a significant meeting with the Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye, Mehmet Eymen Şimşek. Secretary Human Rights & Minorities Affairs Department, Dr. Usman Ali Khan, was also present. This marked the Consul General’s first meeting with any government minister since assuming office in Pakistan.
During the meeting, the Consul General appreciated Punjab’s cultural richness and its model of religious harmony, particularly praising the Vaisakhi farewell ceremony held at Hazuri Bagh. He commended Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz and the Provincial Minister for their minority-friendly initiatives.
The Consul General proposed expanding educational opportunities through digital learning and requested a list of minority students to include them in future scholarship programs. He also expressed interest in collaboration on small-scale development projects, including the construction and rehabilitation of schools and libraries, as well as support for women and skilled workers.
Provincial Minister Ramesh Singh Arora briefed the delegation on the Punjab government’s initiatives for minority welfare. He highlighted that Christmas 2025 celebrations continued for two weeks across Punjab, beginning with a carol rally attended by thousands from different religious backgrounds. He also noted that four major annual events are organized for the Sikh community.
Expressing concern over the impact of restrictions related to the Kartarpur Corridor, the Minister emphasized that Sikh pilgrims should continue to have access under the bilateral agreement between Pakistan and India.
He further stated that under the vision of the Chief Minister—“Minorities are my pride”—historic steps have been taken, including the first-ever Diwali celebration at the Chief Minister’s House. Financial assistance, grants, and scholarships are being provided to minorities, while 17 gurdwaras have been restored and work on 20 more is underway.
Restoration projects also include churches, Shawala Mandir, and Krishna Mandir, while religious tourism has been declared a key priority of the Punjab government.
The Minister concluded by expressing hope for enhanced cooperation with Türkiye in creating employment opportunities and development initiatives.