Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua has insisted that cancellation of registration and closure of a number of INGOs is in full accord with the standards of due process. Briefing Islamabad-based envoys as part of outreach to discuss questions and mutual concerns related to registration and operation of international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) in Pakistan, Janjua had a detailed interaction on Tuesday with the foreign diplomats, the Foreign Office said.
Outlining Pakistan's approach and policy, according to Spokesperson Foreign Office Dr Mohammad Faisal, the foreign secretary reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to a mutually beneficial framework on INGOs, underpinned by the rule of law, transparency and responsive to nationally determined development priorities.
He said that the foreign secretary further noted that the policy framework was guided by Pakistan's national context, circumstances, needs and priorities. "The foreign secretary recalled that the decisions on cancellation of registration and closure were in full accord with the standards of due process, noting that the right of appeal and opportunities to discuss mutual concerns were provided to the INGOs," the spokesperson added.
Responding to concern over potential impact of cancellation decisions on the people of Pakistan, Janjua underscored that 74 INGOs are operating freely in the country and contributing in several areas of priority to Pakistan. Regarding suggestions for flexibility and periodic review, the spokesperson said that it was highlighted that the inter-agency mechanism had further delineated the scope of activities that are responsive to Pakistan's national development priorities.
He further said that the foreign secretary also encouraged the INGOs and donor governments to work in these activities, such as poverty alleviation, health, vocational education and training, science and technology, environmental protection, disaster management, sports and culture.
According to Dr Faisal, the envoys expressed appreciation over the open dialogue and constructive spirit to discuss mutual concern. "Both the sides agreed to remain engaged with a view to improved communications and finding ways to addressing concern," he added.
Senior representatives of the ministries of foreign affairs and interior and Economic Affairs Division were also present on the occasion. Concerns were expressed when the Ministry of Interior recently asked 18 INGOs to halt their operations in the country within two months. However, the INGOs are also asked to reapply for registration after six months according to the policy framework formulated in 2015 to regulate the INGOs.
Earlier, the ministry granted permission to 72 INGOs to continue their operations in Pakistan whereas 27 were asked to close their activities but were given the right to appeal, the Interior Ministry sources said.