The foreign diplomatic missions in Islamabad are concerned about the current political developments in Pakistan, especially following reports of President Asif Ali Zardari’s illness and his departure for Dubai for treatment coupled with rumors about his stepping down and resignation from office.
The diplomatic missions of the US, UK, Germany, Russia, China, India, Japan and other western and Muslim states were already perturbed about developments taking place in recent months in Pakistan since the May 2 US raid, the latest issue of president’s likely resignation has further added to their concerns and worries.
The foreign missions are keenly monitoring the evolving situation in Islamabad and they are in touch with not only Pakistani officials, but also analysts and journalists, to have as much information as possible and to have their opinion on the current state of affairs in government.
US ambassador Cameron Munter, who met Interior Minister Rehman Malik on Wednesday, is believed to have spoken about the president’s health with him and the other foreign diplomats are also contacting the Foreign Office and other officials in Islamabad.
“Yes the foreign diplomats are worried about what is happening in Islamabad and their contacts with Pakistani officials have increased in the wake of President Zardari’s heart problems and his departure to Dubai for treatment,” said a Pakistani diplomat, requesting anonymity.
He said all the important countries were inquiring after the latest developments in Islamabad.
A diplomatic source said the diplomatic missions of various countries were also in touch with their governments and were regularly sending cables on their understanding of the situation in Pakistani capital.
