Pakistan discontented at espousal of blasphemy laws resolution at EU Parliament

The EU Parliament has adopted a resolution calling for a review of the GSP+ status granted to Pakistan given an "alarming" increase in the use of blasphemy accusations in the country as well as a rising number of online and offline attacks on journalists and civil society organisations.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said in response to media queries, “The discourse in the European Parliament reflects a lack of understanding in the context of blasphemy laws and associated religious sensitivities in Pakistan – and the wider Muslim world. The unwarranted commentary about Pakistan’s judicial system and domestic laws are regrettable,”

Foreign Office stressed that Pakistan is a parliamentary democracy with a vibrant civil society, free media and an independent judiciary, which remains fully committed to the promotion and protection of human rights for all its citizens without discrimination.

The spokesperson clarified that “We are proud of our minorities who enjoy equal rights and complete protection of fundamental freedoms as enshrined in the Constitution. Judicial and administrative mechanisms and remedies are in place to guard against any human rights violations,”

According to EU Parliament resolution, "calls on the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to immediately review Pakistan’s eligibility for GSP+ status in the light of current events and whether there is sufficient reason to initiate a procedure for the temporary withdrawal of this status and the benefits that come with it, and to report to the European Parliament on this matter as soon as possible"

The Pakistan FO representative mentioned that Pakistan has played an active role in promoting freedom of religion or belief, tolerance and inter-faith harmony. At a time of rising Islamophobia and populism, the international community must exhibit a common resolve to fight xenophobia, intolerance and incitement to violence based on religion or belief and work together to strengthen peaceful co-existence.

Pakistan Foreign office further maintained that “Pakistan and the EU have multiple mechanisms in place to discuss the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including a dedicated Dialogue on Democracy, Rule of Law, Governance and Human Rights. We would continue to remain positively engaged with the EU on all issues of mutual interest.”