Pakistan asks foreign envoys not to comment on its political condition

Pakistan has asked foreign diplomats stationed here not to publicly comment on the domestic political situation.

Islamabad, Dec 10 : Pakistan has asked foreign diplomats stationed here not to publicly comment on the domestic political situation.

While expressing displeasure over the meetings of various diplomats with politicians ahead of January 8 elections, the Foreign Office said that Pakistan hoped the envoys would abide by the established norms in this regard.

The advice came after ambassadors of the US and European Union member countries last week held a series of talks with opposition leaders and gave on-spot television interviews after the meetings.

"We have no objection to their meeting with anyone, but diplomats should not make public comments after such meetings," Foreign Ministry spokesman Muhammad Sadiq said.

Pakistan had no intention of barring diplomats from meeting with politicians, but that they should avoid issuing statements that could be construed as interference in the internal affairs of Pakistan, a foreign news agency quoted Sadiq, as saying.

"Pakistan is not imposing any ban on any of its citizen to call on foreign diplomats or their representatives, however, the diplomats should not involve themselves in activities or making statements, which border on interfering in Pakistan's domestic affairs," he added.

He also pointed out that it was general advice and whenever there is a violation the diplomats are summoned and told not to interfere, the Daily Times reported.

ANI