US “concerned” about violence against minorities in Pakistan

WASHINGTON: The United States (US) Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller addressed the North American country’s concerns regarding incidents of violence and human rights violations against minorities in Pakistan.

During a press conference on Tuesday, Miller addressed a recent incident in Pakistan where a man was violently attacked by a mob. The spokesperson expressed “deep concern” and extended condolences to the victim’s family.

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“We [the US] are extremely concerned by those reports”, Miller said.

Miller stated his country’s position that violence against people is never justified. The spokesperson brought up concerns over their impact on human rights and freedom of minorities worldwide, including Pakistan.

“As we have previously stated, we are always concerned by incidents violence. Spread of violence against another person is never an acceptable form of expression, and we oppose [it] everywhere in world, including Pakistan. [Violence] jeopardise[s] the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms”.

In response to another incident of violence against minorities, Miller stated that Pakistan needed to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms for all citizens. This included freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly.

“We have seen the reports. [W]e continue to urge Pakistani authorities to respect human rights and fundamental freedom for all. We have made this clear both, publicly and privately. This includes freedom of expression, association and right to peaceful assembly”.

Miller confirmed ongoing engagement with Pakistani counterparts on human rights issues. This includes the treatment of minorities amidst Pakistan’s continued designation on the US list for violations of fundamental freedoms.

The State Department spokesperson expressed continued concern over reported and systematic violations of fundamental freedoms in Pakistan. Miller cited Pakistan’s designation as a “country of particular concern” in international religious freedom and human rights reports.

“We have [taken issue], [and] regularly engage with our Pakistani counterparts on issues of human rights. We remain concerned by continuous incidents and reports of systematic, on-going violations of fundamental freedoms.

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“We have made this this clear, not only is Pakistan‘s designation as a country of particular concern, but also the [State] Department’s annual International Religious Freedom report and country report on human rights practices”.