Muzaffarabad:On the occasion of Kashmir’s “Day of Exploitation,” Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged India to adopt a peaceful approach and engage in dialogue to resolve ongoing disputes.
In a video link address to a special session of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Prime Minister Sharif condemned the Indian government’s actions of August 5, 2019, which he described as a forcible deprivation of Kashmiri rights. He criticized the revocation of Article 370, which he argued allowed non-residents to settle in occupied Kashmir and unlawfully acquire property.
Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the suffering endured by Kashmiris over the past 77 years and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to morally support them and advocate for their rights at international forums until they are granted their fundamental rights. He expressed hope that the day would come when the people of occupied Kashmir would be freed from Indian occupation, promising that Pakistan would be grateful and offer thanks for their eventual liberation.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the only viable path forward is through peace and negotiation, asserting that any confrontation would only lead to destruction. He stressed the need for India to reconsider its approach and engage constructively to grant Kashmiris their right to self-determination. Additionally, Sharif condemned Israeli aggression in Gaza, drawing parallels with the plight of both Palestinians and Kashmiris.
Sharif’s address underscored Pakistan’s stance that Kashmir, unlike Palestine, will not become an integral part of India despite ongoing injustices. He called for both India and Israel to be held accountable for their actions and to grant freedom to the oppressed populations.