Youm e Istehsal Kashmir: President Zardari, PM Shehbaz Reaffirm Pakistan’s Strong Support for Kashmiris

Islamabad – (Staff Reporter/Web Desk) – Youm e Istehsal Kashmir is being observed across Pakistan to express solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The day marks seven years since India revoked the special constitutional status of the disputed region on August 5, 2019. Pakistan’s political leadership says the decision violated international law and relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.

President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to the courage, patience, and determination of the Kashmiri people. He said that despite years of restrictions and hardships, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have remained committed to their struggle for the right to self-determination.

The president stated that India’s actions of August 5, 2019, could not change the internationally recognized disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir. He added that no unilateral move could weaken the determination of the Kashmiri people to seek justice and peace.

President Zardari said millions of Kashmiris have continued to live under difficult conditions over the past seven years. He noted that many families have faced uncertainty, while young people have seen their educational, social, and economic opportunities become more limited.

He said Pakistan would continue to extend its moral, political, and diplomatic support to the people of IIOJK. According to the president, Pakistan will keep raising the Kashmir issue at every important international platform until a peaceful solution is achieved in line with the wishes of the Kashmiri people and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

The president also stressed that lasting peace in South Asia depends on the peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. He urged the international community, especially the United Nations, to play a more active role in addressing the human rights situation and supporting efforts for a fair and peaceful resolution.

In his message, President Zardari assured the people of Kashmir that Pakistan stands firmly beside them. He praised their resilience and prayed for their strength, patience, justice, and lasting peace.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also reaffirmed Pakistan’s position on Youm e Istehsal Kashmir. He said a peaceful and just settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains a key part of Pakistan’s foreign policy. He added that Pakistan will continue to support Kashmiris through diplomatic, political, and moral efforts.

The prime minister said the events of August 5, 2019, were illegal and unilateral steps that attempted to change the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir. He maintained that these actions violated international law and the resolutions adopted by the United Nations Security Council.

According to Prime Minister Shehbaz, the situation in IIOJK has become more difficult during the past seven years. He expressed concern over restrictions on civil liberties, pressure on political leaders, and limits on independent media. He said these developments continue to draw international attention.

The prime minister praised the courage of the Kashmiri people and said their peaceful struggle for self-determination continues to inspire people who believe in justice, human dignity, and international law. He emphasized that peace in South Asia cannot be achieved without resolving the Kashmir dispute through dialogue and in accordance with UN resolutions.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar also delivered a message on the occasion. He urged the United Nations and the international community to fulfill their responsibilities by supporting international law and protecting the rights of the Kashmiri people.

Ishaq Dar said India’s actions since August 2019 have increased the challenges faced by the people of IIOJK. He added that these measures have affected regional peace and stability and made the situation more complex.

The deputy prime minister called on India to avoid actions that could further complicate the issue. He said Pakistan would continue to raise the voice of Kashmiris at every regional and international forum while supporting efforts for a peaceful settlement of the dispute.

Pakistan’s leadership once again used Youm e Istehsal Kashmir to send a clear message of solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The government reiterated that it remains committed to supporting a peaceful solution based on international law, the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.