ISLAMABAD: The European Union has raised the issue of the arrest of Jang-Geo Media Group Editor-in-Chief Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman with the Pakistani authorities in the context of broader discussions on democratic space, media freedom and the situation of civil society.
EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Virginie Battu-Henriksson in a statement on Monday said that due process must be ensured. The EU is firmly committed to supporting progress on human rights, democracy and the implementation of international conventions in Pakistan. These commitments also form a fundamental condition of the EU’s GSP+ trade preferences granted unilaterally to Pakistan, she said.
Media freedom has been highlighted as one area of particular concern. In the context of the coronavirus pandemic, access to accurate and timely information and the freedom of the media is particularly important. The EU has also raised with the Pakistani authorities the particular vulnerability of prisoners due to their confinement and limited access to adequate healthcare, the EU spokesperson said.
Pakistan and EU stress need to find peaceful solutions to conflicts, in full respect of principles of international law
New food safety laws to be developed in collaboration with Local Government and Agriculture departments
Minister stresses need for using AI in combating climate change, bolstering economy and curbing misinformation
Despite improvements in debt dynamics over medium term, public debt risks remain high, reads DSA Report
CM says he doesn't want legitimate property owners to be at mercy of Tapedars, Mukhtiakras and sub-registrars
In an interview, minister says achieving goal would require sacrifices including giving up governments
