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<p>We are concerned by restrictions on freedom of expression, including the detention
of human rights defenders, journalists and others, in Pakistan. The freedom to hold
and express views without censorship, intimidation or unnecessary restriction is a
cornerstone of democracy. We are also concerned about restrictions on freedom of religion
or belief in Pakistan. The British Government strongly condemns the persecution of
all minorities, including the targeting of innocent people based on their beliefs.</p><p>We
regularly raise at a senior level our concerns about the human rights situation with
the Government of Pakistan, including on the freedom of expression and of belief.
The Prime Minister spoke to the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on 17 August 2018
and highlighted the importance of Pakistan delivering on its commitments to strengthen
institutions responsible for upholding the rule of law, and to advance the rights
of minorities. My colleague, Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, discussed human rights in Pakistan
with the Minister for Human Rights, Dr Shireen Mazari, in September 2018. I raised
these concerns with the government during my visit to Pakistan in November 2017. The
British Government continues to urge Pakistan to honour in full its human rights obligations.</p>
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