BLACK Day was observed across Pakistan on Tuesday to express solidarity with the Kashmiri people and condemn the continuing Indian atrocities in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Rallies, demonstrations and other activities were held in different parts of the country, including the federal capital, Islamabad, reminding the world that the Kashmir dispute remains unresolved and continues to cast a shadow over peace in South Asia.
On the occasion, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of occupied Kashmir. The President called upon the international community, particularly the United Nations and international human rights organizations, to take due cognizance of the grave human rights situation in IIOJK. The Prime Minister reaffirmed that Pakistan would continue extending its moral, diplomatic and political support to the Kashmiri people and advocate their legitimate rights at every national and international forum.
Pakistan’s position on Jammu & Kashmir is principled and consistent. It has always maintained that the dispute must be resolved in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Pakistan has never wavered in raising its voice for Kashmiris and the observance of Black Day is yet another reminder that the country will continue to stand by its Kashmiri brothers and sisters in their just struggle for the right to self-determination. It is deeply regrettable that India remains unwilling to address the dispute peacefully, despite the fact that the matter was taken to the United Nations by its own leadership. Instead of honouring its international commitments, India has continued a policy of repression, violence and denial of fundamental rights in occupied Kashmir. Yet, the Kashmiri people have remained steadfast in the face of oppression. We have no doubt in saying that the day is not far off when the people of Kashmir will see the dawn of freedom and justice. A just resolution of the dispute is indispensable for lasting peace, stability and prosperity in South Asia.
