Pakistan Rejects Remarks by British MPs on Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Calls Them Unfounded
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has rejected what it described as unnecessary and misleading statements regarding Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), expressing concern over remarks made by certain British Members of Parliament and some UK-based individuals of Kashmiri origin.
In a statement, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan termed the comments irresponsible and baseless, asserting that they were made without a proper understanding of the facts and circumstances surrounding the issue.
The Foreign Office said it was concerned about what it called misleading and irresponsible statements made by some individuals residing in the United Kingdom regarding Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It urged such individuals to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of Pakistan and AJK and instead focus on making a positive contribution in their country of residence.
The spokesperson also criticized objections and questions raised by certain British parliamentarians, stating that the remarks reflected a lack of understanding of the historical context and ignored key facts related to the matter.
Emphasizing Pakistan’s sovereignty, the Foreign Office stated that those still influenced by a colonial mindset should remember that Pakistan is a sovereign and democratic state. It added that Pakistan adheres to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries and expects the same respect in return.
The statement further noted that the governments of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir fully recognize and respect citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and participation in the democratic process.
However, the spokesperson stressed that acts of vandalism, damage to public services—particularly hospitals—and the killing of innocent civilians or law enforcement personnel could not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The Foreign Office also called on the British government to discourage individuals allegedly supporting banned organizations from engaging in activities that undermine democratic institutions. It urged respect for the constitutional framework, judicial decisions, democratic processes, and the rule of law in both Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s position, the spokesperson said the country remains committed to democratic values, the rule of law, and the principles of state sovereignty, and would not accept external interference or what it described as unfounded allegations.
