ISLAMABAD – The Foreign Office has rejected the US designation of Pakistanin the Special Watch List for severe violations of religious freedom.

In a statement today (Friday), the foreign office spokesperson said thatthis placement on special watch list is a new categorization and we wouldbe seeking clarification from the US regarding its rationale andimplications.

He said designation overlooks the significant achievements of Pakistan inthe area of human rights.

He said that Pakistan is firmly committed to the promotion and protectionof human rights including the right of religious freedom, under itsConstitution.

He said that wide ranging legislative, institutional and administrativemeasures have been taken by the Government of Pakistan to ensure fullimplementation of guarantees afforded by the Constitution.

The spokesperson said it is surprising that countries that have awell-known record of systematic persecution of religious minorities havenot been included in the list.

This reflects the double standards and political motives behind the listingand hence lacks credibility, the spokesperson said.

He said that Pakistan will continue to work with the internationalcommunity to ensure that internationally agreed standards on religiousfreedom are observed in Pakistan and the broader region.