US Senator Ben Cardin, head of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has said he would “continue engaging on the issues that most directly impact the Pakistani people”, including “promoting democracy and human rights in the country”.

In a statement, he said the “elections were sadly overshadowed by actions that prevented the meaningful participation of all political parties and candidates”.

“I condemn in the strongest terms the deadly bombings at election campaign offices in Balochistan and send my condolences to the victims and their families. These attacks must be investigated and the perpetrators need to be held accountable,” Cardin added.

“I look forward to continuing to find opportunities where the United States and Pakistan can advance our shared goals of security, stability and prosperity across South Asia,” the US senator said.