State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller while briefing the media on Thursday said that US supports fundamental democratic principles in Pakistan. Replying to a question regarding upcoming election in Pakistan, Mathew Miller said that US support the peaceful upholding of fundamental democratic principles such as free media, free speech and freedom of assembly. “We champion the rule of law, not just in Pakistan but around the world. These principles are the foundations for democratic elections,” he added. We respect the rule of law, not just in Pakistan but around the world, he said.

 In respond to a question regarding a number of terrorist attacks in Pakistan which media intelligence reports said were planned in Afghanistan, he said “We will continue to urge the Taliban to fulfil their promises. We will also maintain the capacity to carry out counterterrorism actions in the region.” He said that we retain the ability to conduct our own operations in the region to ensure that, regardless of any promises that the Taliban make and regardless of their relative ability or willingness to uphold them, that we retain the right to protect American interests.

 Replying to a question regarding desecration of Holy Quran in Sweden, Mathew Miller said that US condemn such acts as the burning of a Quran. We think they are abhorrent. “It is abhorrent for anyone to burn or deface a religious book held in honour by so many people around the world. We appreciate the significance of the holy Quran and other texts,” he said.

 
Credit : Independent News Pakistan-INP