Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan has reiterated his country’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri people on the occasion of Kashmir Black Day, observed annually on October 27. This date marks the anniversary of the landing of Indian forces in Srinagar in 1947, an event that Pakistan refers to as the beginning of an ongoing struggle for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.

Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the resilience of the Kashmiri people, who have faced persistent challenges in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) region for nearly eight decades. He praised their resolve in the face of adversity, noting that their struggle for self-determination remains steadfast.

The Prime Minister also criticized the actions taken by India since August 5, 2019, which he described as illegal and unilateral. These measures, he said, aim to alter the demography and political status of IIOJK and have involved severe restrictions on freedom of movement and expression.

Sharif condemned the incarceration of Kashmiri leaders and media figures, describing these actions as violations of international human rights norms. He emphasized Pakistan’s consistent opposition to these measures and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions.

In his message, Sharif assured the Kashmiri people of Pakistan’s continued solidarity, emphasizing that the 240 million people of Pakistan stand with them in their pursuit of freedom. He expressed hope that the promise of self-determination, supported by the international community, will eventually be realized.