US State Department refrains from commenting on Pakistan-IMF negotiations

WASHINGTON: The United States (US) Department of State Spokesperson Matthew Miller chose not to comment on a question regarding the negotiations between the newly elected Pakistani government and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday.

During a press briefing held in Washington on Tuesday, Miller deferred answering a question regarding the newly elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s commitment to accelerate talks with the IMF. “Let me take that back”, he said.

Addressing concerns about the erosion of freedom of speech in Pakistan, particularly the recent Senate resolution proposing bans on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Miller reiterated the US stance in supporting the freedom of expression.

Read more: US signals readiness to work with new Pakistani government

Miller stated that Pakistan’s commitment to freedom of expression should align with global standards. He denounced any attempts to curtail internet platforms in Pakistan, saying that it is imperative to uphold fundamental freedoms within the country.

Regarding the recent developments following the formation of Pakistan’s new government, including investigations into alleged electoral irregularities, Miller very sharply said that “there was a competitive election in Pakistan. Millions and millions of people made their voices heard. A new government has been formed and, of course, we will work with that government”.

The spokesperson however, conceded that there were widespread accusations of alleged irregularities following the election result. “At the same time, there were reported irregularities, challenges brought by the political parties to the results. We want to see those challenges and irregularities fully investigated”, he added.