Ankara: The Embassy of Pakistan in Ankara commemorated Kashmir Black Day with a ceremony aimed at expressing solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and reaffirming Pakistan’s support for their right to self-determination.
According to Press Information Department, the event was attended by members of the diplomatic community, Turkish dignitaries, politicians, intelligentsia, members of the Pakistani community in Ankara, and media representatives. The program began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthems of Pakistan and Türkiye. A documentary highlighting the historical significance of Kashmir Black Day and the struggle of the Kashmiri people was screened.
Speakers at the event included Mr. Güray Alpar, President of the Geopolitical Foresight Institute; Mr. Mustafa Kaya, Deputy Chairman of the Felicity Party; Prof. Dr. Recep Akda?, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health of Türkiye; and Mr. Shaiq Ahmed Bhutto, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Pakistan in Ankara.
Mr. Alpar described the struggle of the Kashmiri people as a matter of human dignity and emphasized their right to determine their own future. He expressed concern about the lack of international attention to the voices of Kashmiris and highlighted the importance of solidarity with their aspirations.
Mr. Mustafa Kaya drew parallels between the Kashmir and Palestine issues, stating that resolving both disputes was essential for peace. He noted similarities between India’s policies in Kashmir and Israel’s actions in the Palestinian territories, reaffirming Türkiye’s support for Kashmir’s legitimate struggle.
Prof. Dr. Recep Akda? highlighted the importance of justice, dialogue, and international solidarity in addressing conflicts. He stressed that Kashmiris must be allowed to exercise their right to self-determination as per United Nations resolutions.
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Shaiq Ahmed Bhutto recalled the events of October 27, 1947, and stated that enduring disputes cannot be considered resolved. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to a peaceful settlement in line with international law and UN Security Council resolutions. He expressed appreciation for Türkiye’s support and condemned India’s unilateral decision in April 2025 to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, emphasizing the treaty’s role in regional water security. He called for adherence to international law and treaty obligations.