Kartarpur Corridor symbol of Pakistan’s commitment towards religious freedom: COAS

A 12-member delegation of British Sikh soldiers – headed by Major General Celia J Harvey, Deputy Commander Field Army UK – visited the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi and met Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, the military’s media wing said.

“Pakistan respects all religions and also recognises the need for promotion of religious tourism in the country,” Gen Bajwa was quoted as saying by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Tuesday.

Kartarpur corridor, he said, is the practical manifestation of Pakistan’s unwavering commitment towards religious freedom and harmony.

The delegation also visited Lahore where the dignitaries witnessed a flag-lowering ceremony at the Wagha border.

According to the ISPR, the British Sikh soldiers visited Lahore Fort, Allama Iqbal Mausoleum and Badshahi Mosque.

During their stay, the delegation visited several religious sites in the country which included Darbar Hazrat Mian Mir, Haveli Naunihal Singh, Gurdwara Janamasthan Guru Ram Das, Samadi Ranjeet Singh, Gudwara Dera Sahib, Kartarpur Corridor, Nankana Sahib and Dera Panja Sahib.

They also visited Orakzai District and witnessed Samana Fort, Lockhart Fort and Saragarhi Monument, the military’s media wing said.

It further said, “This was the place where 21 Sikh soldiers laid their lives in 1897 as part of British expedition and has much historical significance for Sikhs.”

The delegation laid a wreath at Saragarhi Monument. They also lauded the efforts of the Pakistan Armed Forces in bringing peace and normalcy to tribal districts.