Pakistan reiterates commitment to non-interference in bilateral ties with US: FO

Pakistan remains dedicated to fostering respectful and balanced relations with the United States and its European partners, according to Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch.

Speaking at a weekly press briefing in Islamabad, Baloch emphasized that Islamabad and Washington are united in their commitment to non-interference in each other’s domestic matters.

“Pakistan values its relations with the United States, founded on the principles of equality and mutual respect,” she stated, highlighting that such mutual understanding is central to their partnership.

Addressing recent comments from a US individual, Baloch refrained from offering a direct response.

“We do not comment on statements from individuals in the United States. Such remarks are unhelpful for fostering positive relations,” she remarked.

She also reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to international human rights standards, dispelling rumors about its Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) Plus status.

“Speculations about the GSP Plus are baseless. Pakistan remains committed to its human rights obligations,” she asserted.

Turning to Pakistan’s judicial system, the spokesperson underscored its robust framework, ensuring that decisions undergo thorough review by higher courts.

“Our judicial system is designed to uphold the rule of law through proper channels of review,” she added.

A few days earlier, concerns were raised by the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom over Pakistan’s decision to try civilians in military courts for their involvement in the May 9, 2023, protests.

These protests had led to attacks on military installations.

The US State Department voiced concerns about the lack of judicial independence, transparency, and due process in these tribunals, urging Pakistan to uphold constitutional guarantees for fair trials.

“Military courts do not provide the necessary safeguards for due process and judicial independence,” stated a US spokesperson.

Similarly, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) criticized the use of military courts for civilian trials, calling it a move that undermines transparency and the right to a fair trial.

“The UK respects Pakistan’s sovereignty but believes such trials lack independent scrutiny,” said an FCDO representative.

The European Union also expressed reservations over the military court verdicts handed down to 25 civilians linked to the May 9 incidents, further highlighting the international community’s concerns regarding Pakistan’s judicial practices.

Despite these reservations, the Foreign Office reaffirmed Pakistan’s sovereignty and its capacity to address domestic challenges independently, underscoring its commitment to maintaining international standards.