ISLAMABAD, AUG 1 /DNA/ – The Australian High Commissioner in Pakistan, Excellency Neil Hawkins, met the Acting Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on 31 July.

Barrister Khan apprised Excellency Hawkins about the evolving political situation in the country and PTI’s efforts for restoration of the constitution and rule of law. He also spoke about the state of the judiciary after the passage of the 26th constitutional amendment whereby it has been rendered subservient to the dictation of the executive. The manner in which mass convictions are being ordered for virtually the entire PTI leadership without following due process of law also came up for discussion.

Excellency Hawkins underlined Australia’s support for a stable, democratic and prosperous Pakistan and said Australia will continue to advocate to the Government of Pakistan on the importance of upholding democratic principles and human rights, consistent with its Constitution and international obligations. He underscored that Australia regularly engages diplomatically with major political parties in Pakistan.