US urges Pakistan to lift social media restrictions

The US has again urged the Pakistan to lift internet shutdowns in the country, including restrictions on social media platforms.

Addressing a news briefing, State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller has strongly slammed the government-imposed shutdowns of internet platforms in Pakistan. He told the newsmen that we have and will continue to stress the importance of respecting these fundamental freedoms during our engagements with Pakistani officials.

Miller underlined the US’s commitment to freedom of expression in Pakistan and condemned any government-impo¬sed restriction of internet platforms. To a question concerning irregularities in recent elections in Pakistan, the State Department spokesperson urged the newly elected Pakistan government to conduct a thorough investigation into alleged electoral irregularities.

He said that there was a competitive election in Pakistan and millions and millions of people made their voices heard. The US official further said that a new government has been formed and we will of course work with that government. Miller continued, at the same time, there were reported irregularities and frauds. Political parties have challenged results and we want to see those challenges and those irregularities fully investigated, he added.