The United States has voiced strong disapproval of the violent protests, looting, and arson that erupted in Pakistan on May 9, 2023, after the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
During his weekly media briefing, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller underscored the necessity of addressing such incidents in accordance with the rule of law. “We support legitimate, free expression, including the right to protest, the right to peaceful assembly, and we oppose violent actions, we oppose vandalism, looting, arson,” Miller stated in response to inquiries about the attacks on state institutions, including those on May 9 in Pakistan. “Governments should deal with them consistent with the rule of law and respect for free speech.”
When questioned about Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif’s comments advocating for military action against terrorist groups in Afghanistan, Miller acknowledged the severe impact of terrorism on Pakistan. “The Pakistani people have suffered greatly at the hands of terrorists. We have a shared interest in combating threats to regional security,” he remarked, highlighting the country’s long-standing struggle against terrorism and the efforts to maintain internal security.
Miller further emphasized the mutual interest of the United States and Pakistan in addressing regional security threats. “Addressing threats to the region’s security is in our common interest,” he noted, stressing the importance of ongoing cooperation between the two nations.
“We partner with a range of Pakistani civilian institutions and regularly engage the government of Pakistan to identify opportunities to build capacity and strengthen regional security, including in our annual high-level counterterrorism dialogue,” Miller added, reflecting on the collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing stability and security in the region.
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