Pakistan finds EU diplomats’ letter to condemn Russia ‘unacceptable’

The Pakistan Foreign Office has taken a strong exception to a statement by European Union (EU) envoys on Pakistan’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine War in a weekly press briefing.

A few days earlier, envoys of 22 countries — including EU member states — to Pakistan had jointly asked Pakistan to condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine in the resolution which was brought in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) emergency session.

“As heads of mission to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, we urge Pakistan to join us in condemning Russia’s actions,” said a joint statement signed by envoys from 22 countries.

However, Pakistan abstained from voting to censure Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

A spokesperson of the Foreign Office, Asim Iftikhar, said that this showed an “unacceptable attitude” by EU diplomats.

He said, “This attitude is unacceptable and Pakistan has conveyed its concern to the embassies.”

He clarified that Pakistan pursued a clear-minded foreign policy and that the country wants balanced and broad-based relations with all countries, including the United States and Europe.

He also stated that the Pakistan embassy in Ukraine is working to facilitate Pakistani nationals, including students, to evacuate them to secure places.