Today, on Youm-e-Istehsal, the people and the Government of Pakistan stand in unwavering solidarity with our Kashmiri brothers and sisters. We solemnly observe this day to remind the world of the grave consequences of India's illegal and unilateral actions of 5 August 2019, which sought to alter the internationally recognized disputed status of Illegally Indian Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK), in flagrant violation of international law and the relevant resolutions of the United Nations Security Council.
Seven years on, these unlawful measures have neither changed the legal status of Jammu and Kashmir nor diminished the legitimate aspiration of its people. Instead, they have deepened repression, undermined fundamental freedom, and accelerated attempts to alter the demographic composition of the occupied territory through unlawful legislative and administrative measures. The continued suppression of the genuine Kashmiri political leadership, restrictions on civil liberties, and curbs on independent media, remain a matter of serious concern.
Despite these challenges, the courage, resilience and steadfastness of the Kashmiri people remain unshaken. Their peaceful and just struggle for the realization of their unalienable right to self-determination continue to inspire generations and commands the respect and support of all those who believe in justice, human dignity and the rule of international law.
The Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains the principal unresolved issue affecting peace and stability in South Asia. Lasting peace in the region cannot be achieved by coercion or unilateral action, but only through a peaceful settlement of the dispute in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. The international community must move beyond expressions of concern and play its rightful role in advancing a just and durable resolution of the dispute.
On this solemn occasion, I reaffirm that peaceful and just resolution of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute remains a cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy and Pakistan will continue to extend its diplomatic, political and moral support and raise the voice of the Kashmiri people at every regional and international forum.
Pakistan calls upon the international community to urge India to end its human rights violations in IIOJK, reverse its illegal and unilateral measures introduced since August 2019, repeal the draconian laws imposed upon the people of Jammu & Kashmir and create conducive environment to enable the peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, through the exercise of the right to self-determination by the Kashmiri people in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
