In a media briefing on Wednesday, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterated America’s support for Pakistan in its fight against terrorism. He emphasised the shared interest between the two nations in addressing regional security threats and highlighted the extensive collaboration between the US and Pakistan on counterterrorism initiatives.
“Pakistani people have suffered tremendously from terrorist attacks. No country should have to endure such acts of terror,” Miller stated. “The United States and Pakistan have a shared interest in combating threats to regional security. We support Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism and ensure the safety and security of its citizens in a manner that promotes the rule of law and protection of human rights.”
Miller detailed the US’s ongoing partnership with Pakistan, which includes high-level counterterrorism dialogue, robust capacity-building programmes, and a series of military-to-military engagements. This support underscores the US’s commitment to helping Pakistan enhance its counterterrorism capabilities.
During the briefing, Miller also addressed the recent mob lynching incident in Swat, where a man accused of blasphemy was dragged out of a police station and burned to death. Expressing deep concern, Miller extended condolences to the victim’s family and wished a swift recovery for those injured in the violence.
“We are deeply troubled by the recent reports. Any form of violence or intimidation against individuals is unacceptable, and we stand firmly against blasphemy laws worldwide, including in Pakistan. Such laws pose a threat to basic human rights and freedoms, particularly the freedom to practice one’s religion or beliefs,” Miller asserted.
Miller was further questioned about an incident in Punjab province, where police, under pressure from the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), destroyed 17 graves belonging to a minority community. He reiterated the US’s call for Pakistani authorities to uphold the human rights and essential freedoms of all individuals.
“The US consistently conveys the importance of protecting freedoms of religion, expression, association, and peaceful assembly to Pakistani authorities, both publicly and in private communications,” Miller emphasised.
Responding to a query about Pakistan’s continued designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) regarding religious freedom, Miller acknowledged ongoing discussions with Pakistani counterparts. He stressed the US’s focus on religious freedom and the treatment of religious minorities, as highlighted in the State Department’s annual reports on International Religious Freedom and Human Rights Practices.
“We consistently discuss human rights matters with our counterparts in Pakistan, focussing particularly on religious freedom and the treatment of religious minorities,” Miller said. “These concerns are articulated not only through Pakistan’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern but also in the Department’s annual reports on International Religious Freedom and Human Rights Practices.”