Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message on Kashmir Exploitation Day, said that the establishment of lasting and just peace in South Asia is linked to a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued solidarity with the people of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir.
The President’s statement came as Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and around the world observed Kashmir Exploitation Day, marking the anniversary of India’s decision on August 5, 2019, to revoke the special constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir.
In his message, President Zardari paid tribute to what he described as the courage of the Kashmiri people and their struggle for the right to self-determination. He said that seven years had passed since India’s unilateral measures, which he described as violations of international law and relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The President stated that such actions could not alter the internationally recognized disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir. He added that despite facing difficulties, the people of the region remained committed to their right to decide their future. He reiterated that Pakistan would continue to extend moral, political, and diplomatic support to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Message on Kashmir Exploitation Day
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message on Kashmir Exploitation Day, said that India had intensified what he described as efforts to alter the demographic composition of the disputed territory.
The Prime Minister expressed concern over restrictions on political leadership, limitations on civil liberties, and curbs on independent media in the region. He said that despite challenges, the courage, resilience, and determination of the Kashmiri people remained unchanged.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the Kashmir dispute remains one of the most important unresolved issues affecting peace and stability in South Asia. He called on the international community not to limit itself to expressions of concern but to play a responsible role in seeking what he described as a fair and lasting solution to the dispute.
He said that a peaceful and just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue remains a key pillar of Pakistan’s foreign policy. The Prime Minister reiterated that Pakistan would continue to raise the concerns of the Kashmiri people at regional and international forums.
He also urged the international community to address reported human rights concerns in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and called for the reversal of the measures introduced there since August 2019.
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