Brussels, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg, Amna Baloch, has commended the European Parliament for its stance on the human rights situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The Ambassador’s statement comes in response to the EU Parliament’s recent recommendations, which align with Pakistan’s position on the Kashmir issue.

According to Press Information Department, the EU Parliament’s recommendations, dated 17th January 2024, addressed to the Council, Commission, and Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, call attention to human rights abuses in IIOJK. These recommendations reaffirm Pakistan’s long-held view on resolving the Kashmir issue in accordance with UN resolutions. They condemn violence against minorities in India and express concerns over Internet restrictions and illegal detention of political prisoners in IIOJK. Ambassador Baloch noted that these developments not only highlight India’s alleged oppressive policies in Kashmir but also bring the plight of Kashmiris to global attention.

The Ambassador emphasized that regional peace is contingent on resolving the Kashmir issue in line with the Kashmiri people’s aspirations and UN Security Council resolutions. She reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to continuously advocating for the Kashmir issue in international forums, including the European Union. The Ambassador’s active engagement with European leadership on this matter underscores the importance Pakistan places on this issue.