The Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Sunday reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their struggle towards realisation of their right to self-determination.

The country’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Maj.-Gen. Sohail Khan, said this while speaking on the commemoration of Kashmir Black Day in Abuja.

Every October 27 is observed as Kashmir Black Day to mark protest and resentment by Kashmiris around the world in commemorating the forced occupation by Indian security forces of the Jammu and Kashmir valley.

Mr Khan called on the United Nations and other international human rights organisations to support Kashmiris right to have an independent state.

He said, “Today, the Government and people of Pakistan are observing the ‘Kashmir Solidarity Day’ to express solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their struggle for realisation of their right to self-determination. Multiple UN resolutions unambiguously declared that the final disposition of the State of Jammu and Kashmir will be made in accordance with the will of the people. It expressed through the democratic method of a free and impartial plebiscite conducted under the auspices of the UN numerous international, UN organisations as well as UN Special Rapporteurs have reported gross human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan stands firm with Kashmiri brothers and sisters and will continue to provide unwavering diplomatic support.’’.

Also speaking, the Military Attaché of the High Commission in Nigeria, Col. Kamran Mushtag, said that Jammu and Kashmir had been converted into the world’s most militarised zone and the largest prison on earth.

According to him, Kashmiris around the world demand that the international community including the UN and its relevant human rights machinery, civil society organisations, media and other defenders of human rights to fulfill their obligations.

“For the onwards besieged Kashmiris by playing their part to end the rule of tyranny and oppression,” he said.

(NAN)