US opposes May 9-like incidents of vandalism, arson: Miller

WASHINGTON (Dateline News) – US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller in his briefing while responding to a question regarding the May 9 riots in Pakistan said the United States opposes incidents of vandalism, loot and arson anywhere in the world. However, he said, we support legitimate, free expression, including the right to protest and the right to peaceful assembly. He said all protests should be conducted peacefully, and governments should deal with them consistent with the rule of law and respect for free speech. Miller said the Pakistani people had suffered greatly at the hands of terrorists. “We have a shared interest in combating threats to regional security.” he said. Replying to a question, Miller said: “We partner with a range of Pakistani civilian institutions and regularly engage the Government of Pakistan to identify opportunities to build capacity and strengthen regional security, including in our annual high-level counterterrorism dialogue.”