President Asif Ali Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri people in their legitimate struggle for rights, including their inalienable right to self-determination, as enshrined in the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council.
Pakistan’s Stance on Kashmir’s Right to Self-Determination
In a message commemorating Right to Self-Determination Day on January 5, 2025, President Zardari stated, “Today, Kashmiris around the world are observing the 76th anniversary of the Resolution adopted by the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan (UNCIP), providing that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute will be decided through the democratic method of a free and impartial plebiscite under the UN auspices.”
He continued, “In essence, it was a reaffirmation of the inalienable right of Kashmiris to self-determination, which is enshrined in international law and upheld by international human rights instruments.”
India’s Repression in IIOJK
The President expressed regret over India’s denial of this right, noting that for over seven decades, the people of IIOJK have endured oppression, violence, and systemic brutalities.
“Since 5 August 2019, it has been taking steps, aimed at altering the demographic and political fabric of IIOJK, to turn Kashmiris into a disempowered community in their homeland. Despite this, the spirit of the Kashmiri people remains unbroken and their struggle for freedom cannot be suppressed.”
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The International Responsibility to Ensure Kashmiri Rights
He emphasized the duty of the international community, particularly the United Nations, to uphold the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. The President highlighted the UN General Assembly’s annual adoption of the resolution on the “Universal Realization of the Right of the People to Self-Determination,” which brings attention to the rights of those living under occupation.
He stressed that the international community, especially the United Nations, is responsible for fulfilling this promise and supporting the people of IIOJK in exercising their inalienable right to self-determination.
Concluding his message, he urged the global community to take action against India’s ongoing violations in IIOJK, stating, “On this occasion, I call upon the international community to stop India from committing brutalities and human rights violations in IIOJK.”
