The United States has acknowledged and accepted the February 8 general elections in Pakistan, noting how a significant number of Pakistanis came out to vote even though it noted undue restrictions had been imposed and interferences were caused in the electoral process.
Washington, though, crucially signalled that it was willing to work with any new government that takes shape in Islamabad.
"Millions of Pakistanis made their voices heard by voting in Pakistan's elections on February 8, with record numbers of Pakistani women, members of religious and ethnic minority groups, and youth registered," read a brief statement issued by the US Department of State spokesperson on Friday.
"We commend Pakistani poll workers, civil society, journalists and election observers for their work to protect and uphold Pakistan's democratic and electoral institutions. We now look forward to timely, complete results that reflect the will of the Pakistani people."
Washington officially declared that several credible officials were monitoring the process and condemned the violent events which took place during the election process.
"We join credible international and local election observers in their assessment that these elections included undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly," the State Department spokesperson said, adding, "We condemn electoral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions on access to the internet and telecommunication services, and are concerned about allegations of interference in the electoral process. Claims of interference or fraud should be fully investigated."
The US further indicated a desire to work with any upcoming government in Pakistan as it demanded a peaceful political transition of power.
"The United States is prepared to work with the next Pakistani government, regardless of political party, to advance our shared interests," the statement said, adding that Washington was looking forward to bolstering its partnership with Islamabad by supporting Pakistan's economy through trade and investment.
"We will continue to support Pakistan strengthening its democratic institutions, engage through the US-Pakistan Green Alliance Framework, broaden people-to-people ties, and promote human rights including freedom of expression," the spokesperson said.
The statement said that the US was committed to strengthening security cooperation with Pakistan and creating an environment of safety and security that affords the Pakistani people the peace, democracy, and progress they deserve.