Strong statement from the US. I hope it follows by strong sanctions on junta including Mushrraf and baring his crones from traveling abroad.
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/003200711040340.htm
US, Britain denounce Emergency in Pakistan
Washington/London (PTI): The United States and Britain on Saturday denounced imposition of Emergency in Pakistan saying this is not only a “sharp setback” for democracy but also took that country off the path towards stability and civilian rule.
“The United States is deeply disturbed by reports that Pakistani President Musharraf has taken extra-constitutional actions and has imposed a state of emergency”, State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said in a statement.
He said “a state of Emergency would be a sharp setback for Pakistani democracy and takes Pakistan off the path toward civilian rule”.
“President Musharraf has stated repeatedly that he will step down as Chief of Army Staff before re-taking the presidential oath of office and has promised to hold elections by January 15th. We expect him to uphold these commitments and urge him to do so immediately”, McCormach said.
“The United States stand with the people of Pakistan in supporting a democratic process and in countering violent extremism. We urge all parties to work together to complete the transition to democracy and civilian rule without violence or delay”, the spokesman said.
In London, British Foreign Secretary David Miliban expressed grave concern over declaration of a state of Emergency saying the country’s future depended on ensuring the rule of law.
“I am gravely concerned by the measures adopted today, which will take Pakistan further from these goals”, he said in a statement.
“We recognize the threat to peace and security faced by the country but its future rests on harnessing the power of democracy and the rule of law to achieve the goals of stability, development and countering terrorism,” Miliband said.
He said he would raise his concerns with the Pakistani Foreign Minister and encouraged all parties in the south Asian country to show restraint.
“All friends of Pakistan will be concerned by the turn of events today,” Miliband said.