By Naveed Siddiqui
ISLAMABAD: In a strong response, Pakistan has categorically rejected the recent designation by the U.S. State Department, labeling the nation as “a Country of Particular Concern.” Officials express deep dismay, emphasizing that the designation appears to be based on a biased and arbitrary assessment detached from the ground realities of the country.
Pakistan asserts its identity as a pluralistic nation with a rich tradition of interfaith harmony, citing constitutional measures undertaken to promote religious freedom and protect minority rights. Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a statement that the government notes with concern the exclusion of India, a country accused of being a serial violator of religious freedom, from the U.S. State Department’s designation list. This omission is criticized, especially in light of recommendations by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) and concerns raised by international human rights constituencies regarding India’s treatment of religious minorities.
The Pakistani authorities express serious doubts about the credibility, transparency, and objectivity of the entire process, arguing that such omissions raise questions about the fairness of the evaluation. The statement maintains that discriminatory, unilateral, and subjective exercises are counterproductive and undermine the shared objective of advancing religious freedom globally.
Pakistan advocates for countering religious intolerance, xenophobia, and Islamophobia through constructive engagement and collective efforts based on mutual understanding and respect. The nation highlights its bilateral engagement with the U.S. and underscores the importance of conveying its concerns directly to the U.S. side regarding the recent designation.
