Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka Observes 'Youm-e-Istehsal' Kashmir, Reaffirms Support for Kashmiris' Right to Self-Determination

Photo: CNI

Diplomatic Correspondent: The Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka solemnly observed "Youm-e-Istehsal" Kashmir on Wednesday to commemorate India's actions of 5 August 2019, which Pakistan describes as illegal and unilateral. The event highlighted Pakistan's continued support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and their right to self-determination.

Speaking at the ceremony, High Commissioner Imran Haider welcomed the guests and reiterated Pakistan's unwavering commitment to the Kashmiri people. During the event, messages from President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar were read out.

The messages stated that India's unilateral measures, including the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, could not alter the internationally recognized disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir or change the realities on the ground. They reaffirmed that the Government and people of Pakistan stand in complete solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir and will continue to extend political, diplomatic, and moral support to what they described as the Kashmiris' just struggle for the realization of their inalienable right to self-determination, as enshrined in the UN Charter and relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

The messages also urged the international community to uphold the UN Charter, international law, and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions to enable the people of Jammu and Kashmir to exercise what Pakistan described as their legitimate right to self-determination.

As part of the programme, the High Commission organized a photo exhibition portraying the hardships faced by the people of Kashmir. A documentary was also screened, presenting Pakistan's perspective on the situation in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, including allegations of human rights violations and the suppression of the Kashmiri people's aspirations.

The event was attended by members of the Pakistani community in Bangladesh, media representatives, and guests from different walks of life, who expressed solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Special prayers were offered for those who lost their lives in the Kashmir conflict and for peace, justice, and the realization of the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination.