The US State Department responded to the recent meeting between US ambassador and PTI leaders, saying that the US maintains a stance of impartiality towards political parties and acknowledges the ongoing tensions between Iran and Pakistan.
Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the US Foreign Ministry, said that during the meeting, PTI leaders including opposition figure Omar Ayub discussed topics ranging from economic reforms to regional security and human rights. Miller further said that the agenda also included discussions on enhancing bilateral relations between the US and Pakistan, reiterating, “We do not endorse any specific political party, and we are cognizant of the existing tensions between Iran and Pakistan.”
Notably, the meeting occurred a day prior when the American ambassador engaged with PTI leaders such as Umar Ayub, Barrister Gohar, and Asad Qaiser.
Following the meeting, Umar Ayub briefed the media, highlighting conversations on Pakistan’s political and economic landscape. Meanwhile, PTI issued a statement asserting that discussions with the US ambassador encompassed topics like democracy, rule of law, human rights, and the economy.
The statement further addressed concerns about alleged constraints on political freedoms, unlawful measures impeding freedom of expression, and purported retaliatory actions against political adversaries, including PTI’s founder, his spouse, party officials, and supporters.
