Former Azad Jammu and Kashmir president and renowned diplomat Sardar Masood Khan highlighted the socio-economic progress of Azad Jammu and Kashmir while emphasizing the need for further development to improve the lives of the region’s people.
During an interactive session with researchers at the Center for International Strategic Studies (CISS AJK) in Muzaffarabad, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the Kashmir cause. He remarked that AJK has made remarkable strides in economic and social development since its liberation from the monarch in 1947.
‘We must listen to voices of our masses and civil society to bridge gap between elected representatives and electorate’
However, Masood Khan said that much remains to be done to enhance the quality of life for the people. “Our elders built this state from scratch with honesty, dedication, and commitment. Today, we have transformed significantly from having only one college in Mirpur in 1947 to now boasting five universities with 11 regional campuses, three medical colleges, and over 100 colleges across the region” he said while lauding efforts of the founding leaders,
He highlighted the educational achievements of AJK, noting that thousands of students from the region pursue higher education in institutions across Pakistan and abroad, with the literacy rate in District Poonch nearing an impressive 85%. “In 1947, we had only a dirt road connecting Muzaffarabad to Srinagar. Now, a comprehensive network of roads connects even the smallest villages with major cities in AJK and Pakistan,” he observed while touching on infrastructure development.
Discussing the region’s untapped potential, he emphasized the importance of leveraging AJK’s natural resources. “Our region has immense potential for hydropower generation and tourism development, thanks to its abundant water resources and natural beauty, which can attract both domestic and international tourists.” Acknowledging the progress, he stressed the need to address public concerns. “We must listen to the voices of our masses and civil society to bridge the gap between elected representatives and the electorate,” he added.
On the Kashmir issue, the former president reiterated that the liberation of Kashmir and the right to self-determination for its people remain Pakistan’s top priority. He lamented the lack of international focus on the issue. “While the global community’s attention briefly turned to Kashmir after India’s abrogation of its special status in August 2019, the issue has since receded to the background due to COVID-19 pandemic and internal political dynamics in Pakistan.”
Masood Khan praised CISS for its initiatives and commended its leadership under Dr Asma Shakir Khawaja. He acknowledged the institute’s dedicated efforts in advocating for the Kashmir cause and its contributions to critical research areas. The session began with welcoming remarks by the CISS executive director, who lauded Masood Khan’s distinguished career and expressed gratitude for his presence.
A comprehensive presentation followed, showcasing the institute’s achievements and academic endeavors. The event concluded with Dr Asma Shakir Khawaja presenting a souvenir to Masood Khan as a token of appreciation for his contributions and continued advocacy for the Kashmir cause.
