The Additional Attorney General informed the Islamabad High Court that the government would send a delegation to the U.S. to seek Aafia Siddiqui’s release.
According to ARY News, a hearing occurred in the Islamabad High Court on Fauzia Siddiqui’s petition regarding Dr Aafia Siddiqui’s well-being and return to Pakistan. Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq presided over the hearing, during which the Additional Attorney General and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs appeared in court, as did Fauzia Siddiqui’s lawyer, Imran Shafiq and court assistant Zainab Janjua.
Court assistant Zainab Janjua stated that Dr. Fauzia has requested it, and she also believes that Aafia Siddiqui should undergo a medical check-up. Dr Fauzia Siddiqui and her family have also asked that doctors from Pakistan be sent to Aafia Siddiqui.
The Additional Attorney General informed the court that the government would send a delegation to the U.S. for Aafia Siddiqui’s case. This delegation will include former and current members of parliament, Aafia Siddiqui’s sister Fauzia Siddiqui, Pakistani doctors, and retired or active military officials. The Prime Minister has approved sending this delegation to the U.S.
The court inquired about what actions the Ministry of Foreign Affairs could take in this matter. The ministry representative informed the court that a proposal for a prisoner exchange agreement has been shared with the U.S., and a response is expected soon.
The court then adjourned the hearing until next week.
It is noteworthy that recently, the Government of Pakistan sent a letter to U.S. President Joe Biden, requesting a pardon and release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, who is imprisoned in the U.S.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif requested President Biden to review Aafia Siddiqui’s case on compassionate grounds and intervene.
Shehbaz Sharif stated that Dr. Aafia was sentenced to 86 years in prison and has already served 16 years. Over the years, several Pakistani officials have visited her and expressed serious concerns regarding her treatment.
