Islamabad, Pakistan – Pakistan renews its call for India to be held accountable for the continued human rights violations in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) region, where over 7,000 Kashmiris have lost their lives while in the custody of Indian forces over the past three decades.
During a weekly press briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch condemned the death of another Kashmiri civilian at a police station in Pulwama district, describing it as part of a troubling pattern of custodial deaths in IIOJK. Pakistan stands firm in its political, diplomatic, and moral support for the Kashmiri people and seeks a just and peaceful resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute based on UN Security Council resolutions.
In addition to addressing the situation in IIOJK, Spokesperson Baloch highlighted Pakistan’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the term 2025-2026. With the support of 182 UN General Assembly members, Pakistan aims to contribute to resolving disputes peacefully, opposing unilateral force, combating terrorism, supporting peacekeeping efforts, and promoting democracy and transparency on the global stage.
The press briefing also emphasized the condemnation of the recent bombing by Israeli forces on a UN-run school housing Palestinian refugees, resulting in multiple deaths, mostly of women and children. The deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian facilities constitutes a violation of international law and must be recognized as war crimes.
Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar is set to attend an extraordinary meeting of the D8 Council of Foreign Ministers in Istanbul to discuss the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza. The international community must recognize its shared responsibility in bringing an end to the unjustified war on the people of Gaza and providing humanitarian relief.
As Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif undertakes a five-day visit to China, both countries have signed 23 Memorandums of Understanding to deepen bilateral cooperation in various sectors. The commitment to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) remains strong, with a focus on completing ongoing projects and ensuring the safety and security of Chinese personnel and investments in Pakistan.
In conclusion, the passing of the Tunisian Ambassador in Islamabad was acknowledged with condolences extended to the Tunisian government and the bereaved family. The developments in Kashmir, Gaza, and the China-Pakistan partnership demonstrate Pakistan’s commitment to upholding human rights, promoting peace, and fostering international cooperation on various fronts.