Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering political, diplomatic and moral support for the Kashmir issue and stated that the Kashmiri people’s struggle for the right to self-determination would continue until its logical conclusion in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions.
Addressing a special session of the Legislative Assembly in Muzaffarabad City on the Kashmir Solidarity Day, the prime minister paid tribute to the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people, and underlined that history bears witness that Kashmiris can sacrifice their lives and children but will never compromise on their freedom. Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Kashmiri Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore laid a wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada.
Shehbaz Sharif expressed profound grief over the demise of Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry, and recalled the late leader’s lifelong dedication to the freedom movement. He saluted martyrs of the Kashmir struggle and paid homage to Hurriyat Conference Chairperson Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Yasin Mallick, and other leaders, activists, journalists, and women. He said the blood of innocent Kashmiris had exposed India’s narrative before the world.
He said Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah had declared Kashmir as Pakistan’s jugular vein, which continues to form the basis of Pakistan’s foreign policy. He maintained that durable peace in South Asia was not possible unless India abandoned its hegemonic ambitions and respected the fundamental rights of Kashmiris. Linking Kashmir with Palestine, the prime minister said granting oppressed peoples the right to live according to their will was a test of the world’s commitment to democracy, justice and international law.
He said that Pakistan would continue to play an active role in the peaceful resolution of both issues – Kashmir and Palestine. He announced a comprehensive package for Azad Jammu and Kashmir, including construction of Danish Schools, establishment of a world-class Danish University in Muzaffarabad focused on information technology, artificial intelligence and scientific research, enhancement of stipends for migrants, merit-based laptop distribution, scholarships under the Pakistan Education Endowment Fund, water supply schemes, hydropower projects, bridge construction and increased funding for universities, including women’s higher education institutions.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured that Pakistan would continue full cooperation with Azad Jammu and Kashmir regardless of political changes, urging unity, perseverance and collective resolve to achieve national development goals and advance the Kashmir cause. “Long live Zindabad, long live brave Kashmiri people,” he raised slogans amid applause in the house. While welcoming Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore thanked him for visiting the state for the third time in a short span, calling it a clear manifestation of his deep affection and commitment to the Kashmiri people.
He said Pakistan’s political leadership, irrespective of party lines, had always stood united on the Kashmir issue and never discriminated in its support for Kashmiris. He lauded Pakistan’s consistent diplomatic efforts at international forums and said the Kashmiri people considered Pakistan their homeland, and paid tribute to martyrs and the armed forces, saying their sacrifices had strengthened the Kashmir cause. Expressing gratitude for development initiatives, he acknowledged the gift of educational projects, saying these would secure the future of Kashmiri youth.
Legislative Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Latif Akbar addressed the session, thanking Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Kashmiris and for prioritizing development alongside the freedom struggle. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Ishaq Dar, federal ministers Ahsan Iqbal, Attaullah Tarar, and Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah, former prime ministers Sardar Atique Ahmed Khan and Sardar Abdul Qayyum Khan Niazi, cabinet members and legislators were also present on the occasion, along with Ghulam Muhammad Safi-led delegation of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference.
In his message on the occasion of Kashmir Solidarity Day, President Asif Ali Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast moral, diplomatic and political support for the Kashmiri people, reaffirming their inalienable right to self-determination as enshrined in the relevant UN Security Council resolutions. He said that the people of Pakistan across the globe stand united with their Kashmiri brothers and sisters in their just struggle. He recalled that the observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day was initiated 36 years ago by Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto following the historic independence movement of 1989 that continues to this day.
For nearly eight decades, he said they have remained steadfast in the face of what he termed illegal occupation, rendering immense sacrifices for their fundamental rights and freedoms. He expressed deep concern over the prevailing situation in occupied territories, stating that the unilateral and illegal actions of August 5, 2019 had further aggravated the plight of the Kashmiri people. He said India had intensified efforts to entrench its control through administrative and legislative measures, curbing media freedoms, incarcerating Kashmiri leadership and attempting to alter the demographic composition of the territory.
The president highlighted what he described as grave human rights violations by Indian forces, citing international reports that point to a rise in arbitrary detentions, collective punishment and punitive house demolitions. He said that the suppression of digital freedoms, including the blocking of thousands of social media accounts, reflected attempts to conceal the realities on the ground. Referring to the recent profiling of mosques and mosque management committees, he termed these actions as deliberate intimidation aimed at restricting the religious freedom of the Muslim majority population.
He warned that the military escalation initiated by India in May 2025 underscored the fragility of peace in South Asia, emphasizing that lasting regional stability was impossible without a just resolution of the Kashmir issue. Calling on the international community to move beyond expressions of concern, the president urged it to press India to end human rights violations in the occupied state, allow unhindered access to human rights observers and fulfill its commitment to granting Kashmiris their right to self-determination. He said Pakistan would continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Kashmiri people until they are able to determine their future through a free and impartial plebiscite.
In his special message on Kashmir Solidarity Day, Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani said that February 5 symbolized the strong solidarity of the Pakistani nation, parliament, and state institutions with the Kashmiri people. He said the day reaffirms Pakistan’s firm commitment to stand with the Kashmiri people in their just struggle for the right to self-determination. He said the people of Kashmir have made great sacrifices over several decades in their struggle for freedom.
He said that serious human rights violations and continued Indian actions in occupied territories remain a major test for the conscience of the world community, and its silence was deeply disappointing. He reiterated that Pakistan has always supported, and will continue to support, the legitimate right to self-determination of the Kashmiri people at diplomatic, political, and moral levels. He urged the international forums to ensure implementation of their resolutions and play an effective role in allowing the Kashmiri people to exercise their basic rights.
In her message, First Lady Aseefa Bhutto paid tribute to the resilience of Kashmiri women and youth living under occupation, reaffirming Pakistan’s solidarity with the Kashmiri people and their right to self-determination. She drew particular attention to the suffering and strength of Kashmiri women, and said women remain at the front line of the occupying force’s war on fundamental rights. She said that the mass graves of their families represent only one part of a much larger reality.
“The silence imposed on entire communities is enforced through premeditated violence and brutal assaults against the women of the occupied valley. Despite this, the women of the occupied territories continue to stand firm as leaders at the forefront of what remains the longest resistance to the brute colonization of a disputed region in the world,” she said, and expressed concern over persistent human rights violations in the occupied parts of the state, especially their impact on women and children. While women face intimidation and loss, she noted that children were growing up under conditions of prolonged hardship that continue to shape their lives.
Addressing the Kashmiri youth, Aseefa Bhutto acknowledged their central role in sustaining the freedom movement and urged them not to lose hope. She reaffirmed that the youth of Pakistan would continue to raise their voice internationally in support of their Kashmiri counterparts. She recalled that the observance of 5 February as a national day of solidarity was initiated 36 years ago by her mother – Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Reiterating Pakistan’s moral, diplomatic and political support, she called upon the international community to honour their commitments and implement relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that love for Kashmir runs like blood through the heart of every Pakistani and paid rich tribute to the Kashmiri martyrs who sacrificed their lives to keep the flame of the right to self-determination alive. She said the Kashmiri people, who have been bravely resisting oppression for more than seven decades, deserve salute and respect. She remarked that India’s brutality has turned the heaven-like valley of Kashmir into a prison.
Calling upon the international community, she urged the United Nations and other global institutions to play their lawful role in stopping human rights violations in the occupied territories of the Kashmiri state. She said that lasting peace in the region would remain a distant dream until a permanent and just resolution of the Kashmir issue was achieved. She reiterated that the sacrifices of the oppressed Kashmiri people would not go in vain. Expressing optimism, she said that the Kashmiri people would soon witness the dawn of freedom.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti expressed solidarity with the Kashmiri people, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering political, moral, and diplomatic support for their just struggle. He praised resilience of the Kashmiri people, noting that they have courageously resisted oppression for more than seven decades. He emphasized that their determination remains unbroken despite continued coercion and repression. “Every child of Balochistan stands firmly alongside the Kashmiri people,” he said, underscoring the deep-rooted sense of unity and brotherhood across the province.
He stressed that granting the right to self-determination to the Kashmiri people, in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions, was a responsibility of the world community. He urged global institutions and human rights organizations to play an effective role in resolving the Kashmir issue and ensuring justice. He described Kashmir Solidarity Day as a day of renewed commitment, symbolizing Pakistan’s steadfast resolve to stand with the Kashmiri people in their legitimate struggle. He said that atrocities cannot break their morale, expressing confidence that the freedom movement will ultimately succeed.
Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori paid rich tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for their right to self-determination. He stated that Pakistan and its people reaffirm their unwavering support and full solidarity with their Kashmiri brothers and sisters. He said that the Kashmiri people have been facing the worst oppression, brutality, and grave human rights violations for several decades. However, their courage, resilience, and sacrifices were a bright and eternal chapter of history. He stated that Kashmir was the jugular vein of Pakistan, and Pakistan remains incomplete without it.
He said that every countryman in Pakistan shares equally the pain and suffering of the Kashmiri people. “We will continue to raise our effective voice on every international forum to secure the basic and undeniable right to self-determination for the Kashmiri people in accordance with UN resolutions,” he said, and expressed the resolve on behalf of the people of Sindh that moral, political, and diplomatic support for the just struggle of the Kashmiri people would continue with full force. Concluding his message, the governor prayed that Almighty Allah grant freedom, peace, and security to the Kashmiri people at the earliest.
In Islamabad, the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) hosted a day-long program of cultural activities to mark Kashmir Solidarity Day, drawing a large number of visitors to exhibitions, performances and screenings focused on the region’s people and heritage. Organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and States and Frontier Regions, the events aimed to highlight Kashmir’s cultural narrative alongside Pakistan’s political support for the cause.
A photography exhibition in PNCA’s main lobby featured images documenting human rights violations in daily life, cultural traditions and social conditions in Kashmir. Ayesha Malik, a university student from Rawalpindi, said the visual format made the issue more relatable. “Reading about it is one thing, but seeing actual photographs of people and places gives you a different perspective,” she said., adding that these events remind people that Kashmir has a rich cultural heritage beyond the political dimension. Mohammad Aslam, who brought his grandson to the event, said that he wanted the younger generation to understand the significance of the day.
The exhibition included work by renowned photographers capturing landscapes, cultural events and community life. On the occasion, a documentary traced Kashmir’s history and contemporary situation through archival footage and personal accounts. Fatima Qureshi, a visitor, noted the documentary’s focus on ordinary Kashmiris. “It presented the human side of the issue, which often gets lost in political discussions,” she said. The program also included a puppet show for schoolchildren that used traditional puppetry to convey themes of peace and resilience. The performance proved popular with young audiences, many of whom were experiencing puppetry for the first time.
Sadia Rehman, a teacher attending with her third-grade class daughter, appreciated the age-appropriate approach. “It introduces complex themes in a way children can understand and remember,” she said. The main event was “Laho Rang-e-Kashmir,” a theatrical production depicting individual and family experiences against the backdrop of Kashmir’s recent history. The play drew applause from an audience that belonged to diverse backgrounds. The play focused on human stories, families, relationships, and everyday challenges, to give audiences something they could connect with emotionally.
Bilal Ahmed, a theater student, praised the production’s balanced approach. “They didn’t oversimplify things. The characters felt genuine, which made it more impactful,” he said. A parallel event in Muzaffarabad featured traditional music and dance performances by the Cultural Academy at the Prime Minister’s House. The program showcased regional folk arts, including local drumming traditions and ballads. “We wanted to create opportunities for people to learn about Kashmir through different mediums—visual art, film, live performance,” said a PNCA representative involved in organizing the events.
At D-Chowk on Shahrah-e-Dastoor, a powerful message of Kashmir’s freedom rose from voices that do not depend on sight. Visually impaired special children, deprived of physical vision but guided by inner light, gathered to show solidarity with the people of Kashmir. Their presence carried a clear message: freedom cannot be suppressed, and light cannot be imprisoned. The children took part in a peaceful walk from China Chowk to D-Chowk, turning Shahrah-e-Dastoor into a symbol of unity and hope. With glowing faces and hearts lit by the belief in freedom, they explained to the world that liberty was a basic human right—one that no force, border, or darkness can deny.
Speaking after the introductory remarks, Special Education Director Amir Khan said the children’s awareness and courage reflected the true spirit of humanity and patriotism. He said special children were known not by limitations, but by strength, understanding, and moral clarity. He said that such activities help the world recognize their voice and their role in standing for justice. Tariq Khan, who accompanied the visually-impaired children, said that the excitement among the children began early in the morning. “All the children woke up early as they were full of energy and happiness because they knew they were going to stand in solidarity with the people of Kashmir,” he said.
“They kept saying that we have to give a message to the nations of the world—that freedom cannot be imprisoned,” he said. During the walk, Muhammad Abdullah, a six grade student, said that freedom belongs to every human being. “No one has the right to cage human souls,” he said. “Freedom is a light that cannot be locked away.” Muhammad Waleed and Muhammad Asad, close friends, held each other’s hands firmly as they shared their dream. They said that one day, they would go together to Kashmir. “It is living in darkness today,” they said, “but one day it will be welcomed with the light of freedom.”
The emotions of Muhammad Shehzeb and Nokar Ali were equally moving. They said the right to freedom belongs to Kashmiris. “We cannot see but we live in a free country. Because of that, we understand the value and the price of freedom better than many others.” At D-Chowk, all the children formed a strong human chain, standing shoulder-to-shoulder. Their collective message was simple yet powerful: light cannot be silenced, and freedom cannot be caged. The walk proved that patriotism does not depend on sight. Even without vision, these children showed the world that the brightest light of freedom lives in the heart—and no prison can ever hold it.
In Islamabad, Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) organized a special intellectual and literary event – Kashmir Ka Muqadma: Nasl-e-Nau Ki Zubani – at its Faiz Ahmed Faiz Auditorium to commemorate the Kashmir Solidarity Day. The event was presided over by former Azad Jammu and Kashmir president Masood Khan. Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir Chairman Rana Muhammad Qasim Noon, Kashmiri scholar Dr Samiullah Malik, and Federal Secretary of National Heritage and Culture Division Asad Rehman Gilani attended as special guests.
In his address, Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khichi expressed satisfaction over the passion and commitment shown by the younger generation. He said the Kashmir issue cannot be forgotten, as it was a serious humanitarian and international concern. He said that the event reflected PAL’s effective literary and intellectual efforts on the Kashmir issue, and noted that the government continues to raise the issue forcefully at international forums, particularly the United Nations. Asad Rehman Gilani said the Kashmir issue was part of Pakistan’s responsibility and stressed the need for sustained intellectual and cultural efforts to keep the narrative alive.
In his address, Dr Samiullah Malik highlighted the historical background of the Kashmir issue, its international status, and sacrifices of the Kashmiri people. He urged the youth to develop critical thinking, awareness, and intellectual engagement, stating that presenting the Kashmir issue before the global conscience was the need of the hour. Rana Qasim Noon said Kashmir was an integral part of Pakistan’s identity. Drawing parallels between the situations in Kashmir and Palestine, he said both regions have witnessed prolonged suffering and sacrifices. He emphasized the need to incorporate the Kashmir issue into the national curriculum to educate future generations about the Kashmiri struggle.
In his presidential address, Masood Khan said the long-standing struggle of the Kashmiri people has become an integral part of history. He said Pakistan now has an opportunity to present the Kashmir issue before the world with renewed resolve and a stronger stance. In her address, PAL Chairperson Dr Najeeba Arif said the purpose of the event was to provide the younger generation with a platform to express their views on the Kashmir issue, as the future of Kashmir rests with them. She emphasized that the issue should not be confined to political discourse alone, but must be kept alive at intellectual, literary, and cultural levels.
She described literature as a powerful medium for shaping national consciousness, preserving history, and engaging in global dialogue. She appreciated the active participation of students from the Punjab Group of Colleges and thanked the administration and faculty for encouraging meaningful dialogue. She acknowledged the students of the Government Postgraduate College H-9 for presenting a stage drama – The Kashmir Case – which artistically highlighted the suffering, pain, and struggle of the Kashmiri people. At the conclusion, publications of the academy were distributed as gifts among the participants.
