ISLAMABAD: On Kashmir Black Day, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, highlighted the continued struggle faced by the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). He recalled the events of 27 October 1947, when Indian troops arrived in Srinagar, marking the beginning of what Pakistan terms as an illegal occupation.

Dar emphasized the United Nations Security Council’s resolutions, which called for a plebiscite to determine the future of Jammu and Kashmir. He accused India of ignoring these resolutions and using force to maintain control over the region. Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to these resolutions and called for an international effort to find a just solution.

The Foreign Minister detailed the situation since India’s actions on 5 August 2019, which included revoking the special status of IIOJK and implementing new laws. These moves, he said, have led to demographic changes and the incarceration of Kashmiri leaders, exacerbating the situation in the territory.

Following the Pahalgam Attack, Dar noted, India intensified its actions in IIOJK, with reports of arbitrary detentions and demolitions of homes. These actions, he stated, add to a long list of alleged human rights violations documented by international organizations.

Despite these challenges, Dar praised the resilience of the Kashmiri people in their pursuit of self-determination. He warned that the unresolved dispute threatens regional peace and stability, urging a resolution in line with UN Security Council resolutions.

Pakistan called on the international community to take meaningful action to alleviate the suffering in IIOJK. The Foreign Minister reiterated Pakistan’s support for the Kashmiri struggle and its commitment to advocating for their rights at global forums.