ISLAMABAD: According to the Foreign Office in this location, Pakistan, China's closest ally, has decided not to attend the Democracy Summit, which begins on Tuesday in Washington. Instead, it will instead engage with the United States bilaterally to strengthen democratic values. The virtual culmination is co-supported by the US Branch of State and USAID on the topic of "Worldwide Announcement of City chairmen for A majority rules system".
The virtual summit has not invited China or Turkiye. Since a long time ago, Pakistan's participation in the summit has been the subject of intense debate.
Islamabad decided to avoid the occasion with the goal that it doesn't possibly irritated its "all-weather conditions partner" China, authorities said.
Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson told the media, "The Summit process is now at an advanced stage. Therefore, Pakistan would engage bilaterally with the US and co-hosts of the Summit to promote and strengthen democratic principles and values, work towards advancing human rights, and the fight against corruption."
Nevertheless, the Foreign Office expressed gratitude to the United States for inviting Pakistan to the Second Summit for Democracy.
"Our friendship with the US is important to us. This relationship has grown significantly during the Biden administration. We stay resolved to additional cementing this relationship for harmony, soundness, and success in the locale," the Unfamiliar Office said.
The three-day event will highlight cities' and sub-national governments' contributions to the global affirmation of democratic values and rebirth of democracy.
On Tuesday, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will moderate a panel discussion titled "A Just and Lasting Peace in Ukraine."
Pakistan, which is short on cash, is waiting for a crucial USD 1.1 billion installment from the global money lender based in Washington, which was originally scheduled to be distributed in November of last year.
The funds are a part of a 6.5 billion USD bailout package that the IMF approved in 2019. According to analysts, this package is crucial if Pakistan is to avoid defaulting on its obligations related to its external debt.
China gave Pakistan 500 million dollars earlier this month, and the country is trying desperately to increase its dwindling foreign currency reserves.