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Islamabad High Court Orders Report on Aafia Siddiqui’s Release Case and Pakistan-US Diplomatic Meetings
The Islamabad High Court has issued a written order regarding Dr. Aafia Siddiqui's release and repatriation case, questioning the absence of the Pakistani ambassador during critical meetings with US Congress members. The court has ordered the Foreign Ministry to submit a detailed report.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-02
Islamabad High Court Orders Report on Aafia Siddiqui’s Release Case and Pakistan-US Diplomatic Meetings

The Islamabad High Court has taken significant steps in the ongoing legal matters surrounding Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release and repatriation. In its latest order, the court directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to submit a report after consulting the Pakistani embassy in the United States. The court’s directive followed questions raised regarding the non-participation of the Pakistani ambassador in crucial meetings between the Pakistani government delegation and members of the US Congress.

The court highlighted the absence of the Pakistani ambassador, questioning why they did not play an active role during these high-level meetings, which were seen as critical for advancing the case of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui. Dr. Siddiqui, who has been imprisoned in the US, has been a subject of controversy and diplomatic discussions for years. The court underscored that the ambassador’s presence was vital for strengthening Pakistan’s diplomatic stance and ensuring the country’s interests were represented at the highest levels.

Further, the Islamabad High Court sought clarification from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the status of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s letter to US President Joe Biden. According to the Foreign Ministry’s response, no official reply had been received from the US administration, which raised further concerns in the court’s view.

In addition to the specific concerns about Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s case, the court also ordered the government to provide details of the foreign visits made by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. The court’s emphasis on transparency in these diplomatic matters signals its intent to hold accountable those in positions responsible for managing foreign relations.

The ruling has sparked renewed interest in Dr. Siddiqui’s case, with the public and political circles continuing to call for more aggressive diplomatic efforts for her release. The absence of key diplomatic figures during important negotiations has raised questions about the effectiveness of Pakistan's efforts in securing her repatriation.
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