ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Pakistan has strongly rejected a statement issued by certain United Nations (UN) human rights experts, labeling it as “selective” and “unverified.” The Foreign Office (FO) expressed concerns that the statement lacked objectivity and failed to consider the broader context of the country’s security situation.
Official Response from Pakistan’s Foreign Office
In a press briefing on Wednesday, Foreign Office spokesperson Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan responded to the UN experts’ statement, which addressed human rights issues within Pakistan. The spokesperson criticized the remarks, claiming they were based on selective media reports and failed to acknowledge the complex realities faced by the country.
“We have taken note of the press release issued by certain UN experts, which appears to be based on selective and unverified media reports,” Ambassador Khan stated. “It is crucial that such public statements adhere to principles of objectivity, factual accuracy, and a balanced approach, reflecting the full context of the situation.”
Concerns Over Proportionality
The Foreign Office spokesperson expressed concern that the UN experts’ remarks were not proportional and overlooked key aspects of the security challenges Pakistan faces. He pointed out that while the statement emphasized civilian casualties caused by military operations, it failed to address the ongoing threat posed by terrorist activities.
Ambassador Khan highlighted a recent incident in Quetta where violent protesters stormed a hospital and seized the bodies of five terrorists killed during a rescue operation. He underscored that the individuals involved in these protests were not peaceful demonstrators but were engaged in unlawful activities, often in cooperation with terrorists.
Upholding Sovereignty and Public Order
Pakistan’s Foreign Office reiterated that the country’s efforts to maintain public order and safeguard citizens’ safety are in line with international law. Ambassador Khan emphasized that international human rights law does not permit any group to misuse rights to undermine the security and safety of others.
“The right of sovereign states to take lawful action to protect their citizens and maintain public order is firmly supported by international law,” he stated. “Pakistan’s actions, particularly in regions affected by terrorism, are consistent with these legal principles.”
Commitment to Human Rights and Development
Despite rejecting the UN experts’ statement, Pakistan reiterated its commitment to human rights and development. The Foreign Office stressed that the government is dedicated to promoting social and economic progress for all communities, irrespective of their ethnic or religious backgrounds.
However, the spokesperson warned that the persistent threat posed by terrorism and its enablers cannot be ignored. “There can be no tolerance for terrorists, their facilitators, or their abettors,” Ambassador Khan concluded.
Engagement with UN Experts
Ambassador Khan also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to engaging in constructive dialogue with UN Special Procedures Mandate Holders, underscoring the importance of mutual respect, objectivity, and factual accuracy in these discussions. He emphasized that Pakistan remains committed to ensuring that all citizens have access to institutional and legal mechanisms for redress under the constitution.
In closing, the spokesperson reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to maintaining peace, stability, and security while upholding its obligations under international law.
