US calls for immediate release of diplomat in Pakistan

When detained, the US diplomat repeatedly requested immunity under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. AP Photo

ISLAMABAD: The United States on Saturday called for the immediate release of a US diplomat it said was unlawfully detained by Pakistani authorities in Lahore, its embassy in Islamabad said.

When detained, the US diplomat identified himself to police as a diplomat and repeatedly requested immunity under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, it said in a statement.

It added, Local police and senior authorities failed to observe their legal obligation to verify his status with either the US consulate general in Lahore or the US embassy in Islamabad.


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