Pakistan Reaffirms Support for Kashmiris on Accession to Pakistan Day

President Asif Ali Zardari said Accession to Pakistan Day reflects the long-standing aspirations of the Kashmiri people and the deep historical, cultural and spiritual ties between Pakistan and Jammu and Kashmir. He urged the international community to take notice of the alleged human rights situation in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and called on the United Nations to implement its relevant resolutions.

The president said Pakistan would continue to provide diplomatic, political and moral support to the Kashmiri people. He added that lasting peace and stability in South Asia can only be achieved through a fair and peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with UN resolutions.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Accession to Pakistan Day is observed every year on July 19 to commemorate the resolution adopted by the All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference in Srinagar in 1947. He said the resolution reflected the aspirations of the Muslims of Jammu and Kashmir and remains a historic milestone in their political struggle.

The prime minister said the occasion highlights the enduring bond between Pakistan and Jammu and Kashmir, built on shared history, faith, culture and geography. Reaffirming Pakistan’s position, he said the country will continue to support the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.

Addressing a gathering in Muzaffarabad, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif paid tribute to the sacrifices made by Kashmiri migrants, the armed forces, martyrs and veterans. He said the relationship between Pakistan and Kashmir has been strengthened through countless sacrifices and continues to remain strong despite ongoing challenges.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also honoured Kashmiri martyrs and Hurriyat leaders, saying the July 19, 1947 resolution reflected the collective aspirations of the Kashmiri people and became a landmark in their political struggle. He reiterated that Pakistan would continue its unconditional and principled support for the Kashmiri people’s right to determine their own future.