FO condemns racist, islamophobic remarks targeting British Pakistanis

The statement followed Elon Musk's comments linking the Pakistani community in the UK to "Asian grooming gangs."

Listen to article

Foreign Office (FO) strongly condemned the growing racist and Islamophobic commentary directed at the Pakistani diaspora in the United Kingdom.

FO spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan on Monday made these remarks during a weekly press briefing in Islamabad, expressing concern over the recent public discourse surrounding the British Pakistani community.

The statement followed a controversial debate sparked by Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, who targeted the Pakistani community in the UK, referring to them in connection with “Asian grooming gangs.”

Musk also accused the UK government of protecting these gangs, labelling UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer a “rape genocide apologist” and calling for his imprisonment.

The situation escalated further when Priyanka Chaturvedi, a leader from India’s Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena, demanded that the term “Pakistani grooming gangs” be used instead of “Asian grooming gangs.” Musk expressed support for her remarks by replying “true” to her tweet.

Khan condemned the politicised narrative aimed at linking the actions of a few individuals to the entire 1.7 million-strong British Pakistani diaspora.

He stressed that such rhetoric only fuels racism and Islamophobia, further marginalising a community that has significantly contributed to the UK’s development.

Khan also reminded the public of the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and the UK, characterised by warmth, trust, and cooperation, cultivated over decades. He highlighted the vital role of British Pakistanis in the UK’s economy and culture.

The FO spokesperson pointed out the historical contribution of British Pakistanis, noting that many Muslim soldiers from what is now Pakistan served in the British Indian Army during both World Wars, fighting for democracy.

Khan concluded by stressing that demonising an entire community for the actions of a few individuals is unacceptable and must be condemned. He reiterated that British Pakistanis continue to be a vital part of the fabric of the UK, enriching its culture and contributing to its success.