WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Masood Khan, branded India’s actions in Kashmir as crimes against humanity during a special event commemorating Kashmir Solidarity Day at the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, DC, on Monday.
He called upon the international community to intervene to protect the Kashmiri people.
Describing the Kashmiris as the most disenfranchised people globally, Ambassador Khan emphasized Pakistan’s unwavering support for their cause. He underscored the sacrifices made by Pakistan in advocating for Kashmir’s right to self-determination, as promised by the UN Security Council and the international community.
Highlighting the precarious situation in Kashmir, Ambassador Khan portrayed the region as a powder keg threatening regional peace and stability, urging the international community to step in and alleviate the suffering of those in Indian-occupied Jammu & Kashmir.
Lars Rise, a former Member of the Norwegian Parliament and chief guest at the event, echoed Ambassador Khan’s sentiments, stressing the need to support Kashmiri self-determination.
He lamented the denial of basic human rights and communication blockades in Indian-occupied Kashmir, urging concerted efforts to raise awareness of the issue globally.
Key remarks by Ambassador Masood Khan @Masood__Khan during a seminar on Kashmir Solidarity Day organized by Embassy of Pakistan, Washington DC. #KashmirSolidarityDay pic.twitter.com/im51zAxDug
— Pakistan Embassy US (@PakinUSA) February 6, 2024
Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, in a video message, drew parallels between the situation in Kashmir and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, condemning India’s sponsorship of cross-border terrorism and its Hindutva agenda.
Other speakers, including Afzal Khan, Member of the UK Parliament, and Ilyas Masih, representing the Pak-American Christian Community, reiterated the moral responsibility of the international community to address the Kashmir issue.
Dr. Asma Shakir Khawaja, Executive Director of the Center for International Strategic Studies, emphasized Kashmiri’s resilience despite decades of subjugation. Various speakers, including Sardar Zareef Khan, Advisor to the AJK President, and Altaf Wani, Chairman of the Kashmir Institute of International Relations, highlighted the need to expose Indian atrocities and raise awareness globally.
Dr. Imtiaz Hussain, a Professor at George Washington University, condemned Indian forces’ crimes against Kashmiri civilians, including demographic changes and environmental destruction.
Renowned author and historian on Kashmir, Ms. Victoria Schofield, expressed her dismay over the unresolved status of Kashmir in an audio message.
