Source/Credit: Pakistan Observer
By Observer | January 22, 2011
Islamabad—US Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy and Human Rioghts Michael H. Posner arrives in Islamabad today (Saturday) on a three-day visit to Pakistan for talks on human rights issues in Pakistan, including protection of minorities and the use of Blasphemy Act.
During his stay in the capital, Posner will call on President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, federal ministers Mumtaz Gilani and Shahbaz Bhatti and representatives of the civil society. Talking to American media before departure for Pakistan on Friday, the assistant secretary of state said the United States supports religious and personal freedom and democracy.
He said the US also wants good relationship with the Pakistan Army and other institutions and hoped that these relations would be further strengthened. He said the United States has not demanded abrogation or amendment of Blasphemy law but its misuse should be stopped. He said people should have freedom to practice their religion. He said he would hold talks on Blasphemy law with government leaders and civil society activists. Answering a question about Aasia Bibi, Posner said their focus is not on a single case but on the whole process that the Blasphemy Act was not misused. About freedom of media in Pakistan, he said an independent media is pre-requisite for promoting democratic traditions.
However he said at the same time the media should also play a responsible role. Regarding assassination of Punjab Governor Salman Taseer, Rosner said according to US point of view, Salman Taseer played an important role in promotion of tolerance and presenting Pakistan as a moderate and tolerant country in the international community. He said the US wants to solidify relations with Pakistan not only at the government but people-to-people level.
He said Pakistan is an important country and an ally of the United States. He said Pakistan is facing different crises but the people have the capability to confront them. About political situation in Pakistan, he said he would be able to say anything about this after his visit.—INP
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