Diplomatic Tensions Rise Over Ambassador's Court Attendance
Diplomatic tensions have emerged between Pakistan and Norway following the attendance of Norway's Ambassador to Pakistan, Per Albert Ilsaas, at a Supreme Court hearing in Islamabad on November 11, 2025. Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally protested this action on December 11, 2025, issuing a strong demarche and characterizing the ambassador's presence as 'intentional interference' in its internal affairs.
Pakistan Cites Violation of Diplomatic Protocol
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Ambassador Ilsaas to convey its strong disapproval. Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that the ambassador's presence constituted a 'breach of diplomatic protocol and international law'. Pakistan specifically cited Article 41 of the Vienna Convention of 1961, which obligates diplomats to respect the laws of the receiving state and refrain from involvement in its domestic matters. Islamabad emphasized that the case involving activist Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, which the ambassador observed, falls entirely within Pakistan's internal legal jurisdiction. The Foreign Office also expressed concerns over what it described as a 'pattern of concerning actions by Norwegian organisations, including NGOs,' which it claims have supported individuals or groups viewed as hostile to the Pakistani state.
Norway Defends Envoy's Actions as Standard Diplomatic Practice
In response to Pakistan's protest, Norway defended its ambassador's attendance. Cecilie Roang, senior communications adviser at Norway's foreign ministry, stated that such 'lawful presence and observation of a court hearing in the recipient state is within the functions of embassies and is in line with international law'. Roang further clarified that 'reporting back home about events in the country of service is a core task of diplomacy' and that 'legally attending public court hearings is not an unusual way to gather knowledge,' particularly in 'matters of public interest'.
The Imaan Mazari Case at the Center of the Dispute
The Supreme Court hearing attended by Ambassador Ilsaas concerned activist Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha. The couple is facing charges under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 (PECA) for allegedly sharing controversial content on social media. Mazari and Chattha had moved an application in the Supreme Court requesting an urgent hearing of their appeal against the Islamabad High Court's refusal to grant interim relief.
The incident highlights a diplomatic disagreement regarding the precise boundaries between legitimate diplomatic observation and perceived interference in a host nation's internal judicial processes. Pakistan maintains its sovereignty and adherence to international diplomatic standards, while Norway asserts its actions align with established international law and diplomatic functions.
5 Comments
Eugene Alta
This protest looks like an attempt to suppress dissent.
Noir Black
Pakistan's claim of a 'pattern of concerning actions' by Norwegian groups adds a layer of complexity to this protest. While Norway maintains its actions are within international law, the historical context influences how such observations are perceived by the host nation.
KittyKat
Observing a public trial isn't interference. It's standard diplomacy.
Mariposa
Keep foreign meddling out of our judicial system. Good on Pakistan for protesting.
Bella Ciao
Vienna Convention Article 41 is clear. Norway crossed a line.