ISLAMABAD: Kashmir Solidarity Day is being observed today around the world, including in Pakistan. This day aims to express solidarity with the Kashmiri people and emphasise their right to self-determination. In recognition of this occasion, there is a public holiday throughout the country, including Azad Kashmir. People are participating in rallies in various cities, and seminars and events are being organized. These activities are receiving full participation from political, social, and educational circles.
On Kashmir Solidarity Day, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have reaffirmed their complete solidarity with the Kashmiri people and their support for their right to self-determination.
The President noted that Shaheed Benazir Bhutto established the tradition of observing Kashmir Solidarity Day, and today, Pakistanis around the world are expressing their unwavering support for the Kashmiri people. He described the current situation in occupied Kashmir as concerning for the global conscience, stating that since August 5, 2019, India has tightened its control and increased human rights violations in the region.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, emphasised that Kashmir Solidarity Day is a day dedicated to supporting the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. He pointed out that the Kashmir issue remains a long-standing dispute on the agenda of the United Nations and that due to India’s actions, the Kashmiri people have been deprived of their fundamental rights for decades. The Prime Minister asserted that Pakistan will continue to provide moral, diplomatic, and political support to the Kashmiri people in the future.
Various political leaders have expressed their views on this day. PML-N leader Saad Rafique stated that today is a day to honour the Kashmiri people and highlighted the vital role of cultural institutions in this regard. He stressed that Pakistan has no intention of breaking India but aims for peace in the region. Rafique mentioned that significant steps toward peace were taken by Nawaz Sharif, but due to political circumstances, these efforts could not be advanced.
Preparations have been made in major cities, including Islamabad, for Kashmir Solidarity Day. Rallies, prayer ceremonies, and seminars are taking place in the capital, where solidarity with the Kashmiri people is being expressed. Various government and private institutions in Islamabad are organising these events.
The prevailing message across the country on Kashmir Solidarity Day is that Pakistan stands with the Kashmiri people and will continue to support their right to self-determination at all levels.
