WASHINGTON: The US State Department underscored the critical need to ensure the safety and security of all prisoners in Pakistan, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
During Tuesday’s press briefing, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller acknowledged a meeting between US Ambassador Donald Blome and leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), including opposition leader Omar Ayub Khan.
Miller mentioned that Blome engaged with the opposition leader and other senior members to discuss various issues crucial to the bilateral relationship, including ongoing US economic assistance to Islamabad.
Regarding discussions with PTI regarding rights and the ‘fabricated’ charges against Mr. Khan, Miller reiterated the US stance on political neutrality. “Our position remains consistent with what we have previously stated, which is that we maintain impartiality regarding elections in Pakistan,” he stated. He stressed the importance of upholding fundamental human rights while maintaining neutrality towards political entities.
Miller also addressed reports of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s alleged warning to Pakistan regarding the safety of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, reaffirming the US’s commitment to human rights. While he acknowledged that Senator Schumer may have coordinated with the State Department in conveying that Mr. Khan’s safety was a top priority in Washington, he was not aware of the specifics of that conversation.
“However, it is evident that we advocate for the safety and security of every prisoner in Pakistan or anywhere else in the world,” Miller remarked. “Every individual, detainee, or prisoner is entitled to fundamental human rights and legal protection.”
