Islamabad, The unresolved Kashmir dispute has the potential to spark significant conflict in South Asia and beyond, as per speakers at a seminar in Islamabad. The event, organized at Kashmir House to mark the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy, highlighted the need for a swift resolution to the longstanding issue for regional peace and prosperity.

According to Kashmir Media Service, speakers included Ambassador Nafees Zakriya, Nadir Al-Turak, the Deputy Head of Mission of Palestine, Ambassador Abdul Basit, Ambassador Zamir Awan, Senator Mushtaq Ahmad, Dr. Talat Shabir, Chairperson of the AK China Centre at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), and other notable figures. They emphasized that without resolving the Kashmir dispute, the region faces the risk of escalating tensions, with potential consequences for global security.

The speakers discussed the multifaceted nature of the Kashmir issue, likening it to a dynamic book with various chapters, each requiring detailed study to ensure accurate international representation. They underscored the importance of addressing the plight of Kashmiri political prisoners through diplomatic means, advocating for their recognition as voices of dissent rather than criminals.

Examples of prominent political prisoners such as Yasin Malik, Dr. Qasim Factoo, Mussarat Alam Bhat, and Syeda Asiya Andrabi were presented, with speakers arguing that these individuals should be viewed as “prisoners of conscience” and freedom fighters, rather than through the Indian lens of insurgency.

The seminar also called on Pakistan to send well-informed and educated envoys to smaller countries with representation in the United Nations to garner support for the Kashmir cause. The speakers suggested that such diplomatic efforts could help raise awareness of the realities in Kashmir and bolster international backing for a peaceful resolution.

The seminar concluded with a call to action for sustained diplomatic efforts and multilateral cooperation to address the Kashmir issue and prevent further escalation in South Asia.