Kathmandu, October 28
The Embassy of Pakistan in Kathmandu organised a special talk programme on October 27 to observe Kashmir Black Day, titled “27th October – Beginning of an Age of Ruthless Occupation.” The event marked the anniversary of Indian troops landing in Srinagar in 1947, which, according to Pakistan, began a period of prolonged suffering for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Prominent analysts, scholars, journalists, and a former ambassador participated.
Messages from Pakistani leadership, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, were read during the programme. According to a press statement released by the embassy, in the message, President Zardari highlighted the plight of Kashmiris under extensive military repression. At the same time, Prime Minister Sharif praised the Kashmiri struggle for self-determination. Deputy Prime Minister Dar questioned the legitimacy of recent IIOJK elections held under heavy military presence, reiterating Pakistan’s stance for a peaceful resolution.
Pakistan’s Ambassador Abrar H. Hashmi criticised recent political developments in IIOJK, emphasising that a genuine resolution requires international attention. Participants expressed solidarity with Kashmiris and called on the global community to address the Kashmir issue as a pressing conflict amid rising tensions worldwide.
