Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (FO) has formally issued a demarche to Norway’s ambassador, expressing strong protest over his presence at the Supreme Court hearing of the Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir case on December 11. The FO said the diplomat’s attendance constituted a serious breach of diplomatic norms and violated international law.
FO Cites Vienna Convention Violation, Warns Against Interference
In its statement, the Foreign Office described the ambassador’s courtroom presence as “irresponsible” and contrary to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961). The FO said the ambassador’s conduct violated Article 41, which requires diplomats to respect the laws of the host country and prohibits engagement in its internal affairs.
The ministry stressed that any foreign diplomat attending sensitive judicial proceedings in a manner that may influence — or appear to influence — the legal process is unacceptable. It noted that such behaviour amounts to interference and directly undermines Pakistan’s sovereignty.
The FO also pointed out that certain Norwegian NGOs, particularly those operating under human rights banners, have previously supported groups allegedly involved in anti-Pakistan activities. This, it said, made the ambassador’s presence even more concerning.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s stance, the FO stated:
“Pakistan is an independent and sovereign state and will take all necessary measures to safeguard its internal matters from external interference.”
It added that the demarche reflects Pakistan’s ability and determination to uphold international diplomatic principles while protecting its national interests.
Supreme Court Pauses Trial in Imaan Mazari Tweets Case
In a related development, the Supreme Court of Pakistan temporarily halted the trial of Imaan Mazari in the case linked to her controversial tweets. The top court accepted a request to suspend further proceedings until the Islamabad High Court (IHC) issues its verdict.
The Supreme Court ruled that the trial court must not move forward until the IHC delivers its final decision. All upcoming hearings at the apex court have been adjourned pending the High Court’s ruling.
