Islamabad, January 5, 2025 – The Europe Today: President Asif Ali Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering political, diplomatic, and moral support for the courageous Kashmiri people in their rightful struggle for self-determination, as enshrined in the United Nations Security Council’s resolutions.
In his message on the occasion of Right to Self-Determination Day, observed on January 5, 2025, President Zardari highlighted the significance of the 76th anniversary of the resolution adopted by the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan (UNCIP). This resolution calls for the settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute through a free and impartial plebiscite under the auspices of the United Nations.
“The resolution reaffirmed the inalienable right of Kashmiris to self-determination, a principle deeply rooted in international law and human rights instruments,” he said.
The President expressed regret that India has denied this right to the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) for more than seven decades, subjecting them to systemic oppression, violence, and brutalities. He condemned India’s actions since August 5, 2019, which aim to alter the demographic and political identity of IIOJK, reducing Kashmiris to a disempowered community.
Despite such tactics, the President lauded the resilience of the Kashmiri people, emphasizing that their spirit remains unbroken and their struggle for freedom undeterred. He underscored that the UN General Assembly annually adopts a resolution on the Universal Realization of the Right of the People to Self-Determination, which highlights the plight and rights of those living under forced occupation.
President Zardari urged the international community, particularly the United Nations, to fulfill its promise by supporting the people of IIOJK in exercising their inalienable right to self-determination. He called upon the world to take action against India’s ongoing brutalities and human rights violations in IIOJK.
