Rule Of Law Remain At Centre of Pak-US Relations: Blinken

WASHINGTON, DC (ANI) – Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Pakistan’s Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had a telephonic conversation, reaffirming the US-Pakistan partnership with a focus on democratic principles and respect for the rule of law.

Secretary Blinken stressed that these values will guide the partnership forward, and the US remains committed to the people of Pakistan, prioritizing their economic success and continuing the fight against terrorism.

They also discussed the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan’s fact-finding report on human rights violations, enforced disappearances, economic exclusion, and press freedom curbs in Balochistan.

The US Secretary expressed concern about the state’s use of enforced disappearances to suppress dissent and the presence of paramilitary check-posts creating a climate of fear in Makran.

Regarding counterterrorism efforts, Blinken affirmed the US commitment to continue partnering with Pakistan.

The US will engage with Pakistan through technical and development initiatives and foster trade and investment ties.

Blinken welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s approval of a program to support Pakistan and encouraged further reforms for economic recovery and prosperity.

In addition, they discussed the destabilizing effects of Russia’s war against Ukraine and both countries’ shared interest in a peaceful and stable Afghanistan.