Diplomatic tensions rise as Afghan diplomats are accused of disrespecting Pakistan's national anthem
- In Reports
- 12:30 PM, Sep 18, 2024
- Myind Staff
Pakistan formally conveyed its strong protest to Afghan authorities on Tuesday after Afghan diplomats reportedly remained seated when Pakistan’s national anthem was played at an official event. The act has been criticised by Pakistani officials as a breach of diplomatic norms and disrespectful to the host country.
In a detailed statement, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed Pakistan’s displeasure, saying, “The disrespect of the host country's national anthem is against diplomatic norms.” She emphasised, “This act of Acting Consul General of Afghanistan is reprehensible. We are conveying our strong protest to the Afghan authorities both in Islamabad and Kabul.”
The incident occurred during a ceremony in Peshawar, which was organised to mark the 12th Rabi ul Awal, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. Afghan Consul General Mohibullah Shakir and his deputy were present at the event, which was hosted by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. Despite the national anthem being played, the Afghan diplomats chose to remain seated, which sparked a strong reaction from Pakistani officials and the public.
In response to the allegations, the Afghan Consulate in Peshawar issued a clarification aimed at mitigating the situation. The consulate’s spokesman explained, “Since there was music in the national anthem, the Afghan Consul General did not stand up while the national anthem was being played.” The spokesman further clarified, “We have banned our own national anthem due to music. The Afghan diplomats would have certainly stood up in respect of the national anthem with hands on their chests, had it been played without music. Therefore, the question does not arise to show any disrespect to the host country's national anthem.”
The clarification from the Afghan Consulate highlights a cultural difference regarding the perception and practice of national anthems with musical accompaniment. The incident underscores ongoing diplomatic sensitivities and the importance of understanding and respecting international protocols during official events.
The situation remains tense as Pakistan continues to seek a formal explanation and an apology from Afghan authorities. The diplomatic spat comes at a time when relations between the two countries are under scrutiny, making this incident a significant point of contention in their bilateral relations.
Image source: Business Standard
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