Afghan Consulate General, who was invited by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur to attend the Rahmatul Alameen Conference in Peshawar, on Tuesday committed a breach of diplomatic etiquette.
During the playing of Pakistan’s national anthem, Consul General Mohibullah Shakir remained seated, refusing to stand as per standard diplomatic protocol.
Experts have condemned the consul general’s actions, emphasizing that in any civilized society, such conduct is considered unacceptable. Diplomatic protocols require all foreign dignitaries to show respect for the national customs of their host countries. By failing to stand during the national anthem, Shakir's actions were deemed to reflect a disregard for the honor and dignity of Pakistan.
Some experts have called for serious consequences, suggesting that Mohibullah Shakir should be declared "persona non grata" and asked to leave the country. They argue that this level of disrespect towards Pakistan cannot go unnoticed and requires a strong diplomatic response.
Furthermore, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, which extended the invitation to the Afghan consul general, has also come under scrutiny. Critics have questioned whether the provincial government is fully aware of the significance of diplomatic decorum and Pakistan's national pride.
Diplomatic experts have urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to take immediate action by issuing a formal demarche to the Afghan government over the incident. They believe that swift action is necessary to uphold diplomatic norms and send a clear message that such violations will not be tolerated in Pakistan.
