In tit-for-tat move, Pak slaps restrictions on movement of US diplomats

Pakistan on Friday imposed "reciprocal" restrictions on the movement of US diplomats after Washington took similar measures, a tit-for-tat move that is likely to further strain ties between the two countries.

Earlier, the restriction was to come into effect from May 1, but was deferred as the two sides decided to resolve the issue.

Foreign Office (FO) spokesman Dr Mohammad Faisal confirmed yesterday that the two sides would impose curbs on movement of each other's diplomats.

"The restrictions will be implemented from May 11 and on a reciprocal basis," he said, adding that "however, negotiations were going on between the two sides, on the matter."

According to the US decision, Pakistani diplomats, at the embassy in Washington and four consulates in New York, Los Angeles, Texas and Chicago, will need to stay within 25 miles (40-kms) of the city of their posting.