Pakistan expresses serious concern over harassment of its diplomat

(2013-06-04)

The Indian Deputy High Commissioner was called to the Foreign Office today and serious concerns were raised over yesterday’s incident in New Delhi in which First Secretary Zirgham Raza and his driver Haider Zaman of the Pakistan High Commission were physically abused. The Indian Deputy High Commissioner was informed that such incidents are uncalled for, unnecessary and do not augur well for the overall bilateral relations, especially at a time when the leadership of the two countries is desirous of improving and normalizing relations.

Earlier in the day, the Indian Foreign Secretary had also called Foreign Secretary Jilani to express his regrets over this unfortunate incident and assured him that the matter would be thoroughly investigated. In this regard he informed Foreign Secretary Jilani that two persons involved in this incident had already been arrested and an FIR had been lodged.

While noting the actions being taken by the Government of India in resolving this matter, the Government of Pakistan calls upon it to ensure that such incidents do not recur and reminds the Indian Government of its obligation under diplomatic conventions and norms of providing adequate safety and security of all Pakistan High Commission personnel, premises and vehicles.

Islamabad
04 June 2013

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