Fact Check Debunks Viral Claim About Qasim Khan Seeking Suspension of Pakistan’s GSP+ Status

Islamabad/Geneva: A viral claim circulating on social media platform X alleging that Qasim Khan called for the suspension of Pakistan’s GSP+ status has been proven false following a detailed investigation by iVerify Pakistan and reports by Dawn.

According to the fact-check, the videos shared online were taken out of context and edited to create a misleading narrative. The footage in question was from a side event held during the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. The event focused on discussing Pakistan’s GSP+ obligations, including human rights commitments and international conventions—not on suspending the status.

Key Findings:

Context Misrepresented: The session titled “Pakistan’s GSP+ Status: Human Rights Conditions, Treaty Obligations and Accountability” aimed to review compliance requirements rather than advocate for withdrawal.
Qasim Khan’s Actual Position: He did not call for the suspension of GSP+. Instead, he emphasized the importance of fulfilling obligations tied to the status.
Clear Denial: Qasim Khan later clarified on social media that he supports the continuation of GSP+, stating that ordinary citizens should not suffer due to governance issues.
Zulfi Bukhari Allegations: Similar claims against Zulfi Bukhari were also found to be baseless, with full videos showing he supported maintaining the trade status.

The GSP+ Status is a preferential trade arrangement granted by the European Union, allowing Pakistan duty-free access to European markets in exchange for compliance with international conventions on human rights, labor laws, and governance.

Conclusion:
The investigation concludes that the viral narrative was misleading and factually incorrect. Qasim Khan’s remarks were focused on accountability and compliance, not on undermining Pakistan’s economic interests.