05/11/2018 (Agence Europe) – European Commission spokesman Carlos Martin Ruiz de Gordejuela called on the Pakistani government on Monday 5 November to protect Asia Bibi, a Christian sentenced for blasphemy and acquitted on 31 October (see EUROPE 12129). "Regarding Mrs Bibi safety, what we expect now is the government of Pakistan to take the necessary measures to ensure the safety of any Pakistani citizens including of course Ms Bibi", he explained. On 3 November, the President of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani, called on the authorities to release Asia Bibi and protect her and her family from ‘religious fanatics who threaten her’. Ms Bibi - who has not yet been released - and her family have been threatened by Islamists. The latter have reached an agreement with the Pakistani government, including a ban on Ms Bibi's leaving the country. (CG)