Pakistan is observing Kashmir Solidarity Day today (Wednesday) to reaffirm its steadfast support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, as promised in United Nations resolutions.
The day is marked as a public holiday every year on February 5, with solidarity rallies held across the country and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
Pakistan stands in solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) in their just struggle for freedom from Indian occupation.
In Islamabad, a rally will be held at Constitution Avenue. At 10 AM, sirens will sound, and a moment of silence will be observed in tribute to Kashmiri martyrs.
Posters and billboards highlighting the plight of Kashmiris have been placed at key locations, including airports and railway stations.
In Muzaffarabad, the AJK Legislative Assembly will hold a special session to express solidarity with the people of IIOJK.
Human chains will be formed at Mangla, Kohala, Bararkot, Azad Pattan, and Holar to symbolize unity between Pakistan and AJK. A special event will take place at Mangla Bridge in Mirpur, with similar programs planned in Kotli and Bhimber districts.
Messages from Pakistani Leadership
President Asif Ali Zardari stated that this day reminds the international community of its responsibility toward the oppressed Kashmiri people. He urged the UN to fulfill its 78-year-old promise and support the Kashmiris’ right to self-determination.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for Kashmiris and called on the global community to press India to allow Kashmiris to determine their future.
He said that lasting peace in South Asia cannot be achieved by suppressing the legitimate aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Pakistan’s Stance on Kashmir and Indian Oppression
The prime minister highlighted that IIOJK remains one of the most militarized zones, where Kashmiris live in fear.
He condemned India’s illegal actions post-August 5, 2019, aimed at altering the region’s demography.
He reaffirmed that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains a key pillar of Pakistan’s foreign policy.
Pakistan Armed Forces Reaffirm Support for Kashmiris
Pakistan’s military leadership expressed unwavering support for Kashmiris in their fight for self-determination.
The statement strongly condemned human rights violations in IIOJK and called on global organizations to intervene.
“We stand shoulder to shoulder with our Kashmiri brethren in their rightful pursuit of freedom. Long live Pakistan! Long live Kashmir!”
