Message of the

Prime Minister of Pakistan

On the Occasion of

Kashmir solidarity Day ( 5 February 2008 )

 

 

 

We observe Kashmir Solidarity Day every year to mark our unwavering political, moral and diplomatic support to the valiant struggle of our Kashmiri brothers and sisters to achieve their legitimate right to self-determination. While honouring the exemplary faith and courage demonstrated by the Kashmiri people, we also pay tribute to the countless sacrifices made by the Kashmiri people for the last sixty years.

The right of the Kashmiri people to self-determination was amongst the first to be recognized by the United Nations. Nearly six decades later, this commitment by the international community remains unfulfilled. Lasting peace can only be achieved once the international community and India honours the pledge made to the Kashmiri people.

The Government of Pakistan remains steadfast in extending its full support to the Kashmiris in their just struggle. We are pursuing a sustained dialogue with India for a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute, in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people. The flexibility shown by Pakistan is reflective of its sincere desire to build an environment of peace and ameliorate the sufferings of the Kashmiris. With this objective, the Government of Pakistan has initiated several Confidence-Building Measures related to Kashmir with India.

On behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan , I would like to reassure our brothers and sisters in Kashmir that we would continue to steadfastly support their just struggle. We are confident that their invaluable sacrifices will not go in vain and that the dawn of justice and freedom will eventually dawn in Kashmir.