Pakistan calls US lawmakers' plea to Biden for Imran Khan’s release ‘counter-productive’

Pakistan criticised the move by US lawmakers to urge President Joe Biden to press Islamabad for the release of Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and former Prime Minister on Thursday (October 25). Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch stated the action was “contrary to inter-state conduct and diplomatic norms.”

Speaking at her regular press briefing, Baloch addressed questions about a recent letter from Democratic members of the US House of Representatives to President Biden, which called for his intervention in Pakistani politics. Over 60 Congress members requested that the US leverage its influence with Pakistan to facilitate Khan’s release from prison.

"Pakistan values its bilateral relations with the United States. We believe in constructive dialogue and engagement to address any concern," Baloch said, adding, "However, comments on Pakistan's domestic affairs are contrary to inter-state conduct and diplomatic norms. We believe such letters and statements are counter-productive and not in line with positive dynamics of Pakistan-US bilateral relations."

Imran Khan has been in detention since August last year, following his conviction in the Toshakhana criminal case and other cases as Pakistan approaches its February 8 elections—a conviction he contests.

In their letter, the Democratic lawmakers urged Biden to focus on human rights as part of US policy towards Pakistan. They wrote, "We write today to urge you to use the United States' substantial leverage with Pakistan's government to secure the release of political prisoners including former Prime Minister Khan and curtail widespread human rights abuses."

They also appealed for US embassy officials to visit Khan, who is currently held at Adiala Jail.

Also read: India: Two soldiers, two porters dead in terror attack on army vehicle in J&K

This collective appeal marked the first such joint call by multiple Congress members for Imran’s release, despite his often critical stance toward US foreign policy. US Representative Greg Casar, who led the initiative, said that since Imran’s removal from office via a no-confidence motion in 2022, multiple legal cases have been filed against him, and he has been imprisoned since August 2023.

The letter also asked that the US seek assurances from Pakistan on Khan’s safety and well-being in custody. Alongside calls for Khan’s release, the Democratic lawmakers said they were concerned over alleged irregularities in Pakistan’s recent elections.

Responding to these concerns, Baloch said, “These letters are also based on incorrect understanding of the political situation in Pakistan.”

She added, "We hope that the US Congress will play a supportive role in strengthening Pakistan-US ties and focus on avenues of mutual collaboration that benefit both our peoples and countries."

(With inputs from agencies)