Pakistan is committed to fostering equal and respectful relations with the United States and maintaining strong partnerships with European countries, Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch stated during her weekly press briefing in Islamabad.
"Pakistan seeks good relations with the US on the basis of equality," the spokesperson stressed.
Highlighting Pakistan’s foreign policy stance, Baloch emphasized that both Islamabad and Washington are committed to the principle of non-interference in each other's internal affairs. She noted that such mutual respect forms the foundation of their bilateral relations.
When questioned about recent remarks from an individual in the United States, Baloch refrained from commenting directly, stating, “We will not comment on the statement of any individual from the United States. Such statements are not good for relations.”
The spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to protecting its citizens and adhering to international human rights laws. Addressing concerns related to the GSP Plus status, she dismissed speculative reports, saying, “We do not know where the news on GSP Plus is coming from. Pakistan remains committed to its human rights commitments.”
Also Read: European Union flags concerns over military court convictions in May 9 riots
Discussing ties with Europe and the US, Baloch underlined the robust partnership between Pakistan and the European Union and the US, which she assured would continue. "Will continue our relations with the US and continue to cooperate with our partners in Europe," the spokesperson stressed.
She also highlighted Pakistan’s judicial system, emphasizing its capacity to review decisions through higher courts, thereby ensuring adherence to the rule of law. "Pakistan has a judicial review system where decisions are reviewed in higher courts," she added.
“Pakistan’s laws are strong enough to handle internal matters independently,” she concluded, reiterating the country’s sovereign approach to governance and its dedication to upholding international standards.
A few days ago, the United States of America, the European Union and the United Kingdom expressed reservations about Pakistan's decision to try civilians in military courts in connection with the May 9, 2023, protests, citing concerns over transparency and fairness.
Also Read: US, UK concerned over Pakistan trying civilians in military courts
The US State Department criticised the lack of judicial independence, transparency, and due process in these military tribunals. A spokesperson for the State Department highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law and fundamental rights. “Military courts lack judicial independence, transparency, and due process guarantees,” the spokesperson said.
The United States called on Pakistani authorities to ensure that civilians receive fair trials, as guaranteed by Pakistan’s constitution. "The United States continues to call on Pakistani authorities to respect the right to a fair trial and due process, as enshrined in Pakistan’s constitution," it added.
A spokesperson for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) had emphasized that while the UK respects Pakistan’s sovereignty over its legal processes, the use of military courts for civilian trials undermines fundamental rights. “Trying civilians in military courts lacks transparency, independent scrutiny and undermines the right to a fair trial,” the FCDO spokesperson said.
The European Union (EU) had also expressed concerns over the recent verdicts delivered by Pakistan's military courts against 25 civilians involved in attacks on military installations during the May 9, 2023 riots.
