ISLAMABAD: Reacting to criticism from the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union regarding recent convictions handed down by military courts, Pakistan’s Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch reaffirmed Pakistan’s adherence to constitutional supremacy, legal processes, and its commitment to fulfilling international human rights obligations.
The convictions, related to the May 9, 2023, riots and attacks on military installations, have drawn concerns over the trial of civilians in military courts. In an exclusive interview with WE News English, Baloch said that these sentences were awarded under Pakistani law and in accordance with the ruling of the Supreme Court of Pakistan.
Pakistan’s military courts on Thursday sentenced another 60 civilians to prison terms ranging from two to 10 years for their involvement in violent attacks on military installations during nationwide riots on May 9 last year. Last week 25 civilians were handed prison terms by military courts over the May 9 events.
Pakistan believes in diplomacy and dialogue, and we believe that diplomacy should be conducted bilaterally, not through the media,” she stated. “Our constitution and laws ensure the protection of individual rights, and any convictions can be challenged in Pakistan’s superior judiciary, including the Supreme Court.”
Baloch further reiterated that Pakistan’s legal system guarantees due process and judicial review, offering robust mechanisms for the promotion and protection of human rights.
Pakistan’s Relations with West
Responding to questions about relations with the EU, UK, and US, Baloch highlighted the multidimensional nature of these partnerships. “Our relationships are not one-dimensional or specific to a single agenda,” she said.
“We cooperate in areas such as energy, climate action, science and technology, education, and trade. These mutually beneficial relationships have grown over decades, and we expect them to continue moving forward.”
Pakistan’s Foreign Policy in 2024
Reflecting on Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements in 2024, the spokesperson said that the country has successfully navigated complex foreign policy issues and continued to uphold diplomacy and good relations with all countries of the world.
“We have upheld international law, multilateralism, and good relations with countries across the globe,” she said.
The spokesperson said several high-level visits took place between Pakistan and countries of the region, Europe and East Asia. She also highlighted Pakistan’s role as host of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Heads of Government Meeting in Islamabad as the key achievements.
The successful hosting of the SCO meeting underscored Pakistan’s ability to convene international conferences and foster consensus among member states,” she added.
Missile Programme Criticism Unwarranted
Addressing concerns about Pakistan’s missile program raised by US officials, the spokesperson clarified that the programme is defensive in nature and it is in the context of South Asia. “It has no implications for any other country.”
“The suggestion that a superpower could feel threatened by Pakistan’s modest missile programme is unbelievable,” she said.
Baloch urged global powers to refrain from unilateral sanctions and double standards. “Pakistan believes in peace and stability in South Asia and calls on the international community to support these objectives,” she emphasized.
