EU to end GSP+ if Imran Khan convicted in Al-Qadir Trust Case: PTI

PESHAWAR: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has expressed concern over the trials of civilians in military courts, calling them detrimental to the country’s economy, here on Monday.

As per the details, PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram said the European Union has expressed concern over the trials of civilians in military courts. He warned that if the founder of the Al-Qadir Trust is punished, the GSP agreement with the EU could be in jeopardy.

He also stressed that the PTI’s negotiating committee has the full mandate of Imran Khan and should be allowed to meet the party’s founder. During a press conference along with Provincial Education Minister Meena Khan Afridi, he criticized the trials of civilians in military courts, calling it a violation of both the Pakistani constitution and international laws.

Akram pointed out that the European Union has expressed reservations over the issue, saying that military trials of civilians violate Article 14 of international treaties, which requires Pakistan to uphold the rule of law. He further criticized the government’s actions, claiming that they were violating international agreements to suppress the opposition.

He highlighted the struggle Pakistan faced to get GSP+ status and its positive impact on exports. He warned that the move could lead to the cancellation of the GSP status.

Akram also questioned the delay in the decision regarding the Al-Qadir Trust, asking why it was postponed and where it was being written. He termed the case as political vendetta, despite knowing that there was no truth in it.

Finally, Akram asserted that if the decision came against Imran Khan, it would lead to an international backlash. He confirmed that the PTI’s negotiating committee has started talks with the government, focusing on the release of political prisoners including Imran Khan and a judicial inquiry into the November 26 incident. He reiterated the committee’s authority to negotiate on these issues.