No diplomatic passport for Dr Fauzia, IHC told

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has declined to issue a diplomatic passport to Dr Fauzia Siddiqui, who wanted to travel to the US to meet her sister Dr Aafia Siddiqui.

During proceedings on a petition related to the release of Dr Aafia Siddiqui from a US prison, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan of Islamabad High Court (IHC) directed the Foreign Ministry to take steps for the safety of Dr Fauzia Siddiqui in the US.

The Foreign Office submitted a progress report in IHC stating that Dr Fauzia wanted a diplomatic passport, which was not possible according to the law. The court inquired why she wanted a diplomatic passport, her lawyer said that she feared something might happen to her in the US.

The court further asked if she could stay in the Pakistan embassy in the US, a representative of the Foreign Ministry replied that the matter would be discussed with the relevant consul general. The court said that the Foreign Ministry should ensure full security of Dr Fauzia Siddiqui.

The court told the petitioner's counsel that the Foreign Office had already written to the US Embassy for support in obtaining a visa for Dr Fauzia Siddiqui. The judge said that the petitioner should trust the Foreign Office. Further hearing of the case was adjourned till September 3.