ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has firmly stated that lifting the moratorium on death penalty would not impact the much coveted GSP plus status. This was stated by Foreign Office spokesperson Tasnim Aslam at a weekly press briefing here on Thursday. Replying to a question about the European Union's (EU) concerns on capital punishment in Pakistan, she said Pakistan has its own legal system which contains death penalty within the parameters of international laws.
She said it is the fundamental right of all the states to protect the lives of their people and according to Article 6 of International Covenant on civil and political rights every human being has the right to life and that this right should be protected by law. She said the actions that Pakistan is taking are in pursuance to this article to protect the lives of people. The spokesperson said Pakistan is engaged with the European Union and explained to them its perspective on the matter, adding that the EU also understands Pakistan's position under which it has removed the moratorium on death sentence.
Denying the rumours of Chinese president's visit, she said that no foreign dignitary was invited to participate in the celebrations of Pakistan's National Day on March 23.
In response to a question that the UK is to summon Pakistani High Commissioner in London over Lahore churches attack, she said "No, I cannot confirm that. Pakistan is confronted with terrorism which has emanated from the events in this region over the last thirty years. This is not of Pakistan's own making. Pakistanis have been attacked in Masjids, Churches, Imambargahs, market places and schools. Our children have been killed. It would be unfair to take one terrorist attack and paint it as discrimination against minorities. Irrespective of their religion, the victims of terrorism were Pakistanis".
Responding to a question related to MQM chief Altaf Hussain, Aslam stated that such questions should be put before interior ministry.
Responding to a question regarding the Afghan reconciliation process, she said the process is vital for lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region.
"Pakistan has welcomed the dialogue offer by the Afghan government to the Afghan Taliban to resolve political differences. We welcome the renewed prospects of talks between the Afghan Taliban and Afghan government."
Aslam said Pakistan on its part will continue to support and facilitate the process in every possible manner. She, however, made it clear that this process should be Afghan-led and Afghan-owned.
Asked about the Mumbai attack case, the spokesperson said the trial is continuing and Pakistan wants to see culmination of the process at the earliest. The trial got delayed not because of Pakistan but New Delhi had not given access to our Judicial Commission to examine witnesses in India.
She also reminded that trial in the Samjhota terror attack has not yet started, adding that double standards should be avoided in acts of terrorism. This requires an even-handed approach and concerted efforts to defeat terrorism, she maintained.
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