Toronto: March 15, 2012. (PCP) Pakistani Christian Community would like to thank Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird for presenting this year’s John Diefenbaker Defender of Human Rights and Freedom Award to the late Shahbaz Bhatti, Pakistan’s former Federal Minister for Minorities, which was accepted by his brother in Ottawa today. By doing so, Canada has recognized the Late Minister Shahbaz Bhatti’s effort to highlight the misuses and abuses of Blaspheme Law, commonly used to accuse minorities in general, and Christians in Particular. We also thank Hon. Minister Jason Kenney for being present at the ceremony during this presentation.  John Diefenbaker Defender of Human Rights and Freedom Award  The Diefenbaker Award was created in 2010 by then Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon to honour individuals or groups who show exceptional courage and leadership in defending human rights and freedom. The award was named in recognition of former Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, who during his time in office championed human rights both in Canada and around the world. His determination to secure rights for all led to the passage of the Canadian Bill of Rights in 1960.  Potential candidates for this award around the world are identified by Canada’s global network of diplomatic missions, in consultation with key government partners. Candidates are carefully screened on the basis of their human rights contributions. The final selection is made by the Foreign Affairs Minister.  This non-monetary award is presented annually as part of Canada’s larger commitment to promoting freedom around the world.