Congressmen’s letter for Imran Khan’s release received by Biden admin, Miller confirms
The US State Department has confirmed that it received a letter from 60 members of Congress calling for the release of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan.
During a media briefing on Monday in Washington, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller acknowledged the letter, saying, “We will respond in due course to the members.”
Signed by 60 Congress members on October 23, the letter requested the Biden administration’s support for human rights and democracy in Pakistan, specifically calling for the release of Imran Khan and other political detainees. It also raised concerns over restrictions on internet access and alleged electoral irregularities.
In their letter, the Congress members appealed to President Joe Biden to leverage Washington’s influence with Islamabad to seek the release of the former prime minister, a request that Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) described as “contrary to inter-state conduct and diplomatic norms.”
Responding on October 23, FO Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch stated that Pakistan values its bilateral relationship with the US and prefers constructive dialogue on any concerns. “However, comments on Pakistan’s domestic matters contradict inter-state conduct and diplomatic norms. Such letters and statements are counterproductive and don’t align with the positive dynamics of Pakistan-US relations,” she added.
In response to another question, Miller emphasized the US’s support for democracy and fundamental rights in Pakistan. He highlighted that recent meetings between the US Deputy Assistant Secretary and Pakistani officials underscored the value of human rights, a vibrant civil society, and democratic institutions within the broader US-Pakistan relationship.
