COLOMBO
The Pakistan High Commission, alongside members of the diplomatic community, distinguished guests, friends of Pakistan, and the Pakistani diaspora, jointly commemorated “Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir” to express unwavering solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The solemn occasion marked seven years since 5 August 2019, when Indian forces laid siege to the occupied territory, cutting off all communications and taking unilateral, illegal actions aimed at altering the internationally recognized disputed status and demographic structure of IIOJK.
Addressing the gathering, the High Commissioner, Major General (Retd) Dr. Nayyar Naseer HI (M), highlighted that for over seven decades, the Kashmir region has been embroiled in a bitter dispute, with its people enduring severe hardships and continuous struggles for their right to self-determination. He strongly condemned the ongoing grave human rights violations, including the military siege, cordon-and-search operations, extrajudicial killings, use of pellet guns, arbitrary detentions, and draconian laws designed to suppress basic freedoms and silence the Kashmiri people. Reminding the audience that “Paradise still burns,” the High Commissioner emphasized that the international community cannot remain indifferent and called on global leaders to uphold human rights and the fundamental principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter.
The event featured keynote remarks from speakers, including Mr. Shiraz Younas, who emphasized that the Kashmir dispute remains one of the oldest unresolved items on the UN Security Council agenda due to India’s refusal to honor its international commitments. Special messages from President H.E. Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister H.E. Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif were read out, reaffirming Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to support the Kashmir cause until it is resolved in accordance with relevant UNSC resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. In light of recent regional developments, this year’s commemoration assumed greater significance, with the resounding success of ‘Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos’ standing as a point of national pride while reiterating that lasting peace in South Asia depends entirely on a peaceful, negotiated settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.
In conclusion, the Pakistan High Commission urged the Indian government to immediately end the use of force, repeal draconian laws, and respect the Kashmiris’ right to self-determination. Calling upon the global community to intensify diplomatic efforts and take concrete action, the ceremony concluded with a renewed pledge to advocate tirelessly for the rights and dignity of the Kashmiri people until they realize a prosperous and peaceful future free from illegal occupation.
