Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Muzaffarabad on Kashmir Solidarity Day, underscoring Pakistan’s enduring commitment to the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) in their pursuit of self-determination. The PM addressed a special session of the AJK Legislative Assembly, highlighting Pakistan’s political, moral, and diplomatic support for Kashmiris.
Upon arrival, he was warmly received by Raja Faisal Mumtaz Rathore and senior officials, accompanied by key cabinet members including Ishaq Dar, Ahsan Iqbal, Attaullah Tarar, Sardar Yousaf, and Rana Sanaullah. In his address, Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed that Pakistan will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Kashmiris until they achieve freedom from occupation.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Kashmir Solidarity Day serves as a reminder of Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. He described the Kashmir issue as both a moral and legal responsibility, noting that it remains one of the longest unresolved matters on the United Nations agenda. Several UN Security Council resolutions have recognized Jammu and Kashmir as a disputed territory and called for respect of the Kashmiri people’s will.
Shehbaz Sharif also highlighted the human rights situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir, stating that for nearly eight decades, Kashmiris have been deprived of fundamental rights due to India’s intransigence. He condemned the actions taken on August 5, 2019, describing them as a blatant violation of UN Security Council resolutions and the Geneva Convention, which further worsened conditions on the ground.
The Prime Minister pointed out that India’s measures are driven by extremist ideology, noting systematic interference in religious institutions and administrative control over mosques and shrines as part of efforts to suppress Kashmiri voices.
Expressing admiration for the resilience of the Kashmiri people, Shehbaz Sharif praised their courage, steadfastness, and sacrifices. He reiterated that Pakistan will continue to extend full moral, diplomatic, and political support to Kashmiris at international forums.
The Prime Minister concluded on an optimistic note, expressing confidence that these dark days will soon give way to a bright dawn of freedom, where the people of Kashmir can live with dignity, peace, and self-rule, free from oppression and occupation.
