On this seventh anniversary of Youm-e-Istehsal, Pakistan stands in solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and against the illegal Indian occupation. This day is a reminder the human cost of occupation, denial of fundamental rights, and our shared responsibility to ensure that the Kashmiri people are granted their right to self-determination as enshrined in the United Nations Security Council resolutions.
For almost eight decades, the people of IIOJK have continued to endure oppression at the hands of the Indian occupation forces. Restrictions on civil liberties, incarceration of genuine Kashmiri leadership, prolonged detentions, limitations on freedom of expression and movement, and changes affecting the region's demographic and political landscape remain matters of deep concern.
The people of IIOJK have demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience in preserving their identity, heritage, and hope despite the occupation. Their perseverance serves as a powerful reminder that peace cannot be built by limiting freedoms or silencing legitimate aspirations. A just and lasting peace can only emerge through respect for human dignity, dialogue, and adherence to international law.
As the Minister of Kashmir Affairs, I remain committed to the Kashmir cause and will continue to advocate for the right to self-determination of the Kashmiri people. Pakistan will continue to extend our moral, political, and diplomatic support while advocating for the protection of the fundamental rights of the Kashmiri people and for a peaceful resolution of the dispute in accordance with international law and the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Let this Youm-e-Istehsal serve as a reminder to the international community that lasting peace and stability in South Asia require attention to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and respect for the fundamental rights of its people. The international community should play its due role in promoting the protection of human rights and supporting a peaceful and just resolution of the dispute in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and international law.
