State of emergency in Pakistan

“Norway regrets the declaration of a state of emergency in Pakistan, and we are concerned about further developments in the country. It is particularly regrettable that the state of emergency is directly affecting the independence of the judiciary and the media,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre.

“Setting aside normal democratic rules is always a serious matter. Together with other countries, we urge Pakistan to hold parliamentary elections as planned. I would like to express my hope that the situation can be normalised within a short period of time, so that the process leading to democratic elections can be resumed,” continued Mr Støre.   

“Pakistan faces major challenges both within the country itself and in the region, where there is considerable instability. This makes it even more important for Pakistan to establish a legitimate and stable government. 

“We appeal to the Pakistani authorities to exercise the utmost restraint in the use of force in this difficult situation, and we encourage all actors in Pakistani society to help to ensure that the process of democratisation is resumed as soon as possible,” said Mr Støre. 

So far, the imposition of the state of emergency has not led to greater unrest, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not changed its travel advice for Pakistan. The Ministry is following the situation closely, and is considering what consequences the state of emergency can have for Norwegian citizens in Pakistan.