March 1, 2010

Dear Brother Geoff,

It was nice to meet you and discuss important issues with you during my visit to Washington. Thank you for your support, solidarity and prayers. Thanks for letter and press release. I had very memorable and productive trip to Canada and USA.

I appreciate your commitment for religious freedom and your dedication for the persecuted and marginalized Christians.

My meeting with you was a source of encouragement for me and I thank you for the solidarity shown by you for the religious minorities of Pakistan.

As you are aware, I have been re-inducted into the reconstituted Federal Cabinet of Pakistan, President Asif Ali Zardari despite severe opposition from the extremists included me into the reshuffled Federal Cabinet.

My induction has sent a wave of joy and encouragement among the religious minorities across the country, especially the Christian community.

I personally believe that it is Jesus Christ who has once again bestowed unto me this responsibility and position with a special purpose and mission to serve the suffering humanity and I am determined to carry on defending the principles of religious freedom, human equality, social justice and the rights of minorities.

I am looking forward to welcome you and your delegation in Pakistan. Kindly encourage WEA network and other friends to keep me in their prayers. It is time to stand in solidarity.

Yours in Christ,

Shahbaz Bhatti