RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s Armed Forces on Wednesday reaffirmed their unwavering solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) on the occasion of Youm-e-Istehsal, reiterating support for what they described as the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination under international law and relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
In a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, and the Armed Forces of Pakistan expressed solidarity with the “resilient and courageous people” of IIOJK.
The Armed Forces said they remain committed to supporting the legitimate aspirations of the Kashmiri people and highlighted that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute requires a peaceful resolution in accordance with international commitments and the wishes of the Kashmiri population.
The statement raised concerns over the situation in IIOJK, including what it termed as restrictions, human rights issues, and demographic changes in the region. It said such developments contribute to regional tensions and hinder efforts for lasting peace in South Asia.
“The peace and stability of South Asia are closely linked with the just and peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute,” the statement added.
The Armed Forces also paid tribute to those who lost their lives in IIOJK and reiterated Pakistan’s continued support for the Kashmiri people.
Youm-e-Istehsal is observed in Pakistan every year on August 5 to mark the day in 2019 when India revoked the special constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir, leading to significant political and administrative changes in the region.
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