Ottawa, The Pakistan High Commission in Ottawa, along with its Consulates General in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, organized Photographic Exhibitions on October 26, highlighting the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). These events, attended by members of the Pakistani community, were held in observance of “Kashmir Black Day.”

According to a news release by the Press International Department, High Commissioner Zaheer A. Janjua emphasized Pakistan’s enduring support for the Kashmiris during a video message. He reflected on the Kashmiris’ resilience against the Indian occupation forces and their determination to secure their right to self-determination. Janjua stressed that despite the challenges faced by the Kashmiris, their commitment to their cause shows that no amount of external force can suppress them. He pointed out that the Kashmiris have already chosen their path and that Pakistan pledges to continually support their authentic quest for self-determination.

Further highlighting the significance of October 27th, Janjua recalled the historical event when Indian forces entered the Kashmir valley against the wishes of its residents. He criticized the aggressive actions of the Indian Occupation Forces, especially the stringent measures taken since 5 August 2019, which include imposing strict curfews and a complete lockdown of the IIOJK valley.

The High Commissioner made a call to action, urging the international community to prompt India to adhere to its international responsibilities, particularly in alignment with the UN Security Council’s resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir.

The observance wasn’t limited to the exhibitions alone. Members of the Pakistani and Kashmiri communities also organized protests and rallies in front of the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa, as well as in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. Additionally, seminars and webinars discussing the human rights situation in IIOJK were orchestrated by the Consuls General in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.