President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have reiterated Pakistan’s support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir in separate messages issued on the occasion of Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir.
President Zardari said that lasting and just peace in South Asia was closely linked to a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.
He stated that India had unilaterally changed the constitutional status of the disputed region on August 5, 2019, a move that Pakistan considers inconsistent with international law and United Nations resolutions.
According to the president, the people of Jammu and Kashmir remain committed to their political cause despite the challenges they face, and Pakistan will continue to extend diplomatic, political and moral support.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that efforts to alter the demographic composition of the region and restrictions on political activities and civil liberties remained a matter of concern.
He added that the Kashmir dispute remained one of the most significant unresolved issues affecting peace and stability in South Asia and urged the international community to play a more active role.
The prime minister also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to raising the issue at regional and international forums.
India has not yet issued an official response to the statements.
