People of Pak will always stand with their Kashmiri brothers & sisters for realization of their right to self-determination: FO Spokesperson

ISLAMABAD, August 12 (SABAH): Foreign Office Spokesperson Asim Iftikhar Ahmad has said that the people of Pakistan will always stand with their Kashmiri brothers and sisters and continue to extend all possible support to them for the realization of their right to self-determination, guaranteed to them by the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. He said that over the past seven decades, three generations of Kashmiris have waited for the world community and the United Nations to honor their solemn commitment made to the Kashmiris for their right to self-determination. He said that the international community must demand an end to India’s gross and widespread human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK); reversal of its unilateral and illegal actions of 5 August 2019; repeal of draconian laws; and implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir.

This was stated by FO Spokesperson Asim Iftikhar Ahmad while addressing a weekly press briefing on Friday.

FO Spokesperson said that it is harrowing to note that more than 650 Kashmiris have been martyred since 5 August 2019, including over 130 in the year 2022 alone. In the past week, Indian occupation forces have martyred six more innocent Kashmiris in Kulgam, Pulwama and Rajouri areas of IIOJK.

He said that extra-judicial killings, harassment and humiliation, arbitrary arrests, and house raids by the Indian occupation forces have become the ‘new normal’ in the IIOJK.

Asim Iftikhar Ahmad said that it is unfortunate that as the people of India and Pakistan approach the Independence Day celebrations, the BJP government has shown its true colours with its mischievous move to mark 14 August as ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’. We strongly denounce this move which reeks of the reprehensible playbook of hatred, misinformation and communalism that has become the hallmark of BJP-led India of today.

Asim Iftikhar Ahmad said that it is deplorable that the BJP government, as part of its divisive political agenda, is wantonly attempting to play with the sentiments of the people through one-sided and distorted interpretation of history.

He said that the government of India is advised to desist from politicizing the events related to Independence and instead sincerely honor the memories of all those who sacrificed their lives for a better future for all.

“Let me say this loud and clear – Pakistan will proudly celebrate the magnificent milestone of our Diamond Jubilee, as befits the nation. Preparations are underway across Federal and Provincial governments to celebrate the momentous occasion with various activities. Notably, this includes release of the new recording of our National Anthem. On its part, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also paying a musical tribute to ‘Pakistan At 75’ through a special rendition by officers of the Ministry to be released on August 14” he said.

He said that as the whole country is decked in festive hues of white and green, let me also share that our Missions across the world will also be curating a special experience for our expatriate community by organizing numerous events ranging from elegant flag hoisting ceremonies, diplomatic receptions, art expos, sporting events, gala evenings, musical nights, trade exhibitions in addition to strong and unified digital campaigns to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee. “We look forward to celebrating #75thPayKuchKhaas with panache and patriotism” he said.