US State Department’s spokesperson for Urdu and Hindi-speaking audiences around the world, Margaret MacLeod, on Thursday spoke with Azaad Siasat in an exclusive interview discussing the Pakistan-United States relationship.
Previously, media reports have suggested that the US may put severe travel restrictions on multiple countries including Pakistani travelers with the possibility of blanket travel ban.
The possibility of blanket travel ban was soon dismissed by multiple Pakistani leaders; however, Pakistan may still face strong visa restrictions.
It did not help the rumours when the Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan was denied entry into the United States and subsequently deported from Los Angeles earlier this month.
The top Pakistani diplomat reportedly had a valid US vista along with complete required documents when he was stopped by immigration authorities in Los Angeles.
She also spoke on the issue of reports of possibility of Pakistanis facing visa restrictions for traveling to US, saying, “On January 20, President Trump issued an executive order under which we are thoroughly reviewing visa policy with all countries. The order was named Protecting the United States from foreign terrorists and other national security and public safety threats.”
She further remarked that the State Department and other offices already have a robust screening and vetting process for all visa applicants, saying, “No final decision has been made [about Visa restrictions]. The State Department only implements the policies issued by White House.”
The Azaad Digitals’ correspondent asked the US official about alleged reports of declining relations between the two countries.
Speaking on Pak-US relations, Mcleod stated: “I can’t say that there is any particular problem in the relationship between Pakistan and the United States.”
She suggested that journalists ask them whether the US is supporting this or that political party, saying, “Ultimately, it is the will of Pakistani people to choose their leaders.”
