The United States has reiterated its commitment to supporting Pakistan in its fight against terrorism and extremism. “We continue to stand with Pakistan in its efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism,” said Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the US State Department, during a media briefing in Washington on Monday.
In response to a question about the deaths during a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest, Miller emphasized the importance of peaceful demonstrations globally, including in Pakistan. He urged the Pakistani government to engage with protesters peacefully, highlighting the need for demonstrations to remain non-violent.
The PTI protest, which began on November 24, resulted in the deaths of at least three Rangers personnel and two police officers. PTI also claims that 20 of its members were killed in the crackdown by security forces, who arrested over 1,000 PTI supporters, including more than 30 Afghan nationals.
Miller also addressed a question about US officials raising concerns with India regarding the alleged conspiracy to assassinate a Sikh leader, and declined to comment on President-elect Donald Trump’s remarks about threatening allied nations, stating it was not appropriate to discuss the policies of an administration that has not yet taken office. He added that questions about President Biden’s foreign policy would be handled by him, and a new spokesperson would address President Trump’s policies after his inauguration.
