US-Pakistan relations up for discussion in Congressional hearing

By Naveed Siddiqui
ISLAMABAD: The Foreign Office of Pakistan has expressed optimism regarding the forthcoming hearing by a US Congress subcommittee on US-Pakistan relations following the February 8 general elections. The hearing, titled “Pakistan After the Elections: Examining the Future of Democracy in Pakistan and the US-Pakistan Relationship,” is scheduled for March 20th. Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, during her weekly news briefing, emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to constructive engagement with the United States, aiming for positive dynamics in bilateral ties based on mutual respect and understanding.
Baloch addressed concerns about Pakistan’s Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) Plus status, stressing its importance for bilateral relations with the European Union (EU). She highlighted the successful framework of cooperation between Pakistan and the EU under the GSP Plus, emphasizing its pivotal role in Pakistan’s trade and development.
Furthermore, Baloch raised objections to India’s controversial Citizenship Amendment Act, denouncing its discriminatory nature and calling for corrective actions to protect human rights. She criticized India’s implementation of the Act, alleging it targeted minorities under the guise of providing a safe haven.
Regarding India’s recent ballistic missile test, Baloch noted Pakistan’s awareness of the test on March 11, expressing disappointment that India did not adhere to the pre-notification timeline as stipulated in the Agreement on Pre-notification of the Fight Testing of Ballistic Missiles. She underscored the importance of compliance with international agreements.
Additionally, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to the objectives of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) during the 59th Session of the Programming Committee held in Kathmandu, Nepal. The Foreign Office stated that Pakistan remains fully committed to advancing SAARC’s objectives as a founding member, despite the postponement of the 19th SAARC Summit.
Addressing the situation in Gaza, Baloch expressed deep concern over ongoing atrocities against the Palestinian people by Israeli occupation forces. Pakistan strongly condemned attacks on humanitarian facilities, including the recent assault on a UNRWA food distribution center in Rafah. Baloch characterized such actions as part of Israel’s deliberate policy of mass starvation, calling them inhumane and a crime against humanity. Pakistan also denounced Israel’s decision to construct 3500 new settlement units in the occupied West Bank, condemning it as a violation of international law and a barrier to peace efforts in the region.