On Tuesday, spokesperson for the Foreign Office (FO) Dr. Mohammad Faisal confirmed that the Foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi discussed Asia Bibi with his Canadian counterpart. This discussion comes after Asia Bibi was acquainted in a blasphemy case, resulting in violent protests by religious right parties. The spokesperson stated in a tweet that the Canadian Foreign Minister appreciated the court’s decision and the PM’s positive speech.
Canadian FM telephoned FM Qureshi yesterday. Among other issues, Asia Bibi was discussed. Canadian FM appreciated Supreme Court’s courageous decision & PM’s positive speech. (1/2) — Spokesperson MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) November 13, 2018
FM Qureshi said that Asia Bibi is our national and Pakistan fully respects her legal rights (2/2) — Spokesperson MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) November 13, 2018
The Pakistani authorities confirmed this discussion after Canadian Premier Justin Trudeau said on Monday that his government was in talk with Pakistan over the safety of Asia Bibi. “There is a delicate domestic context that we respect which is why I don’t want to say any more about that, but I will remind people Canada is a welcoming country,” he added. Possibly hinting at Canada granting asylum for Asia Bibi and her family. After her release Aisa Bibi has been shifted to an unknown safe location, as the government fears her life is in danger. Her husband has already applied for asylum in the US and the United kingdom.