The Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations and the Consulate General of Pakistan in New York jointly hosted an event titled “Keeping the Promise of Self-Determination Alive for the People of Kashmir” in observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day. The gathering reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to supporting the legitimate struggle of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) for their inalienable right to self-determination.
Prominent Voices Advocate for Kashmir at International Forum
The event featured remarks from key dignitaries, including AJK Minister for Higher Education Mr. Zafar Iqbal Malik, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Munir Akram, Alternate Permanent Representative Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Consul General Aamer Ahmed Atozai, and representatives from the UN and OIC Contact Group Member States.
In his keynote address, Ambassador Munir Akram highlighted that the Kashmir dispute remains one of the longest unresolved conflicts on the UN Security Council’s agenda. Despite the commitments outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 47 (1948) and subsequent resolutions, the people of Kashmir continue to be denied their right to a free and fair plebiscite.
Condemnation of Human Rights Violations in IIOJK
Addressing the audience, Consul General Aamer Ahmed Atozai condemned India’s unilateral and illegal revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status on August 5, 2019, emphasizing the worsening human rights situation in the region. He also acknowledged the New York State Assembly’s 2021 resolution declaring February 5 as “Kashmir-American Day,” calling it a significant international recognition of the Kashmiri people’s struggle.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s diplomatic, political, and moral support for the Kashmiri people and urged the international community to break its silence on India’s human rights violations in IIOJK.
OIC and International Representatives Renew Support for Kashmir
Representatives from OIC Contact Group Member States reiterated their unwavering support for Kashmir’s right to self-determination. Speakers at the event called for stronger diplomatic efforts to enforce UN resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir and demanded accountability for India’s systematic human rights violations in the region.
Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to Kashmir on Global Platforms
In his closing remarks, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative Designate of Pakistan to the UN, stressed that peace in South Asia depends on a just resolution of the Kashmir dispute. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to raising the issue at international forums and continuing its advocacy for the Kashmiri people’s right to decide their own future.
Diaspora’s Role in Raising Global Awareness
The event saw an overwhelming turnout from the Pakistani and Kashmiri diaspora, underscoring their deep emotional and historical connection to the Kashmir cause. Their participation highlighted the crucial role of the diaspora in amplifying awareness and mobilizing international support for peace, justice, and human rights in Kashmir.
A Renewed Pledge for Justice and Self-Determination
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to keeping the struggle for Kashmir’s self-determination alive and strengthening global advocacy efforts to achieve justice and peace in the region.
