LONDON – After the endorsements and recognition of the United States, Chinaand Saudi Arabia governments over the general elections 2018 in Pakistanthe official response of the UK government has also surfaced.
Britain has also lauded the election process in Pakistan as a milestonestep towards stable democracy in Pakistan.
British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on Friday congratulated the millionsof Pakistani voters who participated in the July 25 general elections.
“The people of Pakistan have shown they will not be cowed by the terroristswho seek to disrupt the democratic process,” the British secretary said ina message. “I extend my deepest condolences to those affected by recentattacks.”
“This is an important moment for democracy in Pakistan, marking anunprecedented second successive transfer of power from one full-termcivilian government to another.
“I welcome the initial findings from international and domestic observers.Running elections in a country of 208 million people is a challenging andcomplex task. The Election Commission of Pakistan should be commended forits work to improve accountability, transparency and inclusiveness”, headded.
“Like the election observation missions, we are also concerned aboutreports of pressure on the media and the number of parties with links toproscribed groups who preach violence and intolerance. Jinnah’s vision of atolerant, pluralist Pakistan remains central to a stable and cohesivesociety.”
Hunt said it is now for Pakistan’s elected representatives to work togetherto ensure a successful transition. “I hope all sides will resolve anydisputed results peacefully and in accordance with Pakistan’s electorallaws,” he added.