US refrains from commenting on Pakistan’s government formation, terms it internal matter

WASHINGTON: The United States Department of State Spokesperson Matthew Miller declared the formation of a new government in Pakistan at the country’s internal matter during a press briefing on Monday.

In response to queries from journalists about the formation of a new government in Pakistan amidst reports of electoral irregularities during the general election held on February 8, Miller stated that it is a domestic concern of Pakistan, and the US will not comment on the internal matters of the country.

“[i]s a Pakistani process led by Pakistanis. We are not a party to it and that [i]s not something I am gonna comment on”, he said.

Read more: US reaffirms non-interference policy in Pakistan’s internal matters

Miller added that the new government should “reflect the will of the Pakistani people”.

He called for investigations into reported irregularities. “[W]e want to see those investigations [into electoral irregularities] proceed, we want to see them wrapped as soon as possible”, he added.

Miller’s comments came amidst concerns over the integrity of the electoral process within Pakistan, with multiple reports of alleged rigging.

On a question regarding Pakistan’s plans to construct a pipeline to transport natural gas from Iran in order to address its chronic energy crisis, Miller opted not to provide an answer.

The United States have expressed concerns over the pipeline project from Iran to Pakistan in the past.