Islamabad: The Pakistani government is seeking a clear response to the US House of Representatives resolution demanding an inquiry into the February 8 election.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said, “As a response to the US Congress, we will also take a decision. We must show our sovereignty, we must show our unity, we must show our efforts. This decision does not make sense.” He said in his speech at the National Assembly.
The US House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly earlier this week to demand a full and independent investigation into allegations of election meddling or interference.
Resolution HR 901 was passed Tuesday by 368 votes to seven, representing 85% of the total number of members of the American parliament in the legislature.
The move prompted a backlash in Islamabad, which the Foreign Office said “stems from a complete misunderstanding of the political situation and electoral process in Pakistan”.
The resolution expressed support for democracy and human rights in Pakistan and asked the government to support democratic institutions and elections, human rights and the rule of law.
It also condemned “any attempt to interfere with Pakistan’s political, electoral or judicial affairs”.
Dar in his speech today that Pakistan’s parliament can take decisions on issues related to other countries, but South Asian countries do not.
“I believe the United States should respond with mutual respect and dignity,” Dar said, adding that a draft resolution had been prepared to be shared with parliamentary leaders from the treasury and opposition benches.
“We must unite with a clear decision against the decision of the United States,” said the Deputy Prime Minister.
Refuting the notion that Pakistan is facing international isolation, Pakistan’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council has demonstrated the confidence of the world community in the current government.
Meanwhile, the PTI, which has a majority in the National Assembly, welcomed the US decision and called it a step in the right direction.
“Positive push in the right direction with our own constitution for democracy, rule of law, civilian control of our armed forces (not the other way around), personal freedom etc,” PTI’s Arif Alvi said in X.
Dar went ahead and said that Pakistan will effectively use the UNSC forum to raise the issue of Kashmir and the situation in Gaza.
Responding to members’ questions, the minister said that relations with Afghanistan are on the government’s priority agenda and he is in touch with the Afghan government.
“A date is also being prepared for a visit to Kabul,” said Dar.
