In Pakistan, General Pervez Musharraf has released 3,400 people who had been jailed under emergency rule, but he has given no indication as to when martial law will be lifted. Protests continue over Musharraf’s decision to shut down two of the nation’s largest TV channels — GEO TV and ARY One World. GEO TV executive editor Hamid Mir said Musharraf is trying to silence his critics.

Hamid Mir: “The government is sending us messages that we must sign the undertaking that we will be loyal to General Pervez Musharraf. This is a compromise on the freedom of media, and we will not compromise. We will continue our struggle.”

Meanwhile, European foreign ministers expressed deep concern over the situation in Pakistan during a meeting in Belgium. EU Commissioner for External Affairs Benita Ferrero-Waldner urged General Musharraf to lift martial law.

Benita Ferrero-Waldner: “We are very deeply concerned with the declaration of the state of emergency, which has not been lifted yet, and also the suspension of Pakistan’s constitution and the fundamental liberties as they have been announced by President Musharraf. We believe that the state of emergency should be lifted as soon as possible, and we also urge all the parties to use restraint and refrain from any dramatic measures.’’

On Monday, Pakistan’s Supreme Court, packed with government-friendly judges, dismissed the main challenges to Musharraf’s reelection last month.