The overthrow of the democratically elected government of Pakistan by the military there is a matter of grave concern to the Government. The Government is particularly dismayed by the proclamation of emergency, the suspension of the constitution and democratic structures, and reports of the arrest of Cabinet Ministers. Together with our EU partners we have called on the military to respect the safety and legal rights of those under arrest and to release them without delay. The situation within Pakistan was already complex and marked by political tensions and economic difficulties. The proclamation of emergency and the suspension of the constitution and democratic structures will further exacerbate these difficulties. These extreme measures were condemned by Ireland and its EU partners at the recent special European Council in Tampere.
Political and economic pressures in Pakistan increased last year as a consequence of the arms race, initiated by India's nuclear tests, which led to the imposition of economic sanctions. Tensions increased further this year as a result of the military clashes in Kashmir, provoked by Pakistan. The absence of civilian control over Pakistan's nuclear weapons, combined with other tension in the region, for example, in Afghanistan, show clearly the dangers of wider regional destabilisation. Continuing dialogue, not confrontation, is needed between Pakistan and India to resolve the tensions in the region. Both Pakistan and India must join and adhere to the global non-proliferation regime.
A major ingredient of the crisis within Pakistan has been the extremely difficult economic situation. Pakistan needs the assistance of the international financial institutions, especially the World Bank and the IMF, as well as supportive agreements with the EU and other major trading partners. However, to receive such assistance, Pakistan needs stable and democratic government capable of sustaining an economic reform programme. In the absence of these conditions, the necessary financial and other support will not be forthcoming. Pakistan was on the verge of signing a trade and co-operation agreement with the EU, but this has now been postponed indefinitely as a result of the military coup. The immediate restoration of democracy and the rule of law is in the best interest of the Pakistani people and will be crucial in preserving the stability of Pakistan and the wider region.
Additional Information.
The question of Pakistan will remain high on the EU agenda. The General Affairs Council will consider the issue at its next meeting on 15 November. The question of further appropriate measures and the future of development assistance will be considered at that time.
The Irish Government's request for approval for the appointment of a new honorary consul of Ireland in Karachi was made to the Government of Pakistan early in October before the military coup. The primary function of an honorary consul is to provide assistance and protection to Irish citizens, especially in situations of uncertainty or distress. While the number of our citizens resident in Pakistan is no more than 150, the services an honorary consul can provide for them are particularly valuable because there is no resident Irish Embassy there. The practical advantages of appointing a new honorary consul must be balanced against other considerations. Accordingly, I do not see such an appointment as being inappropriate at this time.
I am not in a position to say when there will be a response from the Pakistani authorities to our request for approval for the new appointment. As is normal for appointments of this kind, I received representations from interested persons in Pakistan and in Ireland, including from Deputy Ellis, supporting one or other of the 14 possible appointees who were considered.
