Hafiz Naeem Urges Dialogue on Azad Kashmir Issue After Meeting Fazlur Rehman

Islamabad: Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Ameer Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman has urged all stakeholders to pursue dialogue over the situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, saying those willing to engage in negotiations should be valued.

Hafiz Naeem made the remarks after leading a party delegation in a meeting with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman at his residence in Islamabad. The two leaders later addressed a joint press conference.

Expressing concern over the situation in Azad Kashmir, Hafiz Naeem said the meeting was held to discuss the issue and that there was renewed hope that meaningful dialogue could help resolve the matter.

He stressed that no proposal contrary to the Constitution of Pakistan would be acceptable and said the government should come forward to initiate talks. He added that all stakeholders should appreciate those who are willing to engage in dialogue rather than confrontation.

Speaking on the occasion, Maulana Fazlur Rehman endorsed Hafiz Naeem’s remarks, saying they reflected the concerns shared by many political leaders.

He revealed that a delegation had approached him with a letter proposing mediation and that he had advised postponing the planned long march to create space for negotiations. According to Fazlur Rehman, the organizers postponed the march and have not taken any further steps while awaiting responses from both sides.

The JUI-F chief said political leaders in both Pakistan and Azad Kashmir are deeply concerned about the current situation. He also questioned the government’s handling of the issue, noting that while authorities claimed to have accepted the protesters’ demands and signed agreements with them, the same group was later declared banned.

Fazlur Rehman emphasized that national issues should be resolved through wisdom and dialogue rather than relying solely on the use of force.