Islamabad: The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted a significant seminar titled “United Nations and the Jammu and Kashmir Dispute,” in conjunction with UN Day, highlighting the complex challenges in resolving the Kashmir issue. Ambassador Masood Khan, former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, graced the occasion as Chief Guest.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI, in his opening remarks, underscored the importance of the United Nations in resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. He stressed the international community’s duty to implement UN Security Council resolutions for a free plebiscite in Kashmir, lamenting India’s failure to fulfill its commitments.
Ambassador Masood Khan, in his address, delved into the historical and geopolitical factors that have prolonged the conflict. He emphasized India’s August 2019 actions as a bid to tighten control over the region, urging Pakistan to adopt strategic countermeasures to safeguard Kashmiri rights.
Speakers at the seminar condemned India’s electoral manipulation in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Ms. Farzana Yaqoob and Dr. Marium Fatima criticized India’s settler colonialism, calling for international action to protect Kashmiri self-determination.
Mr. Altaf Hussain Wani analyzed the influence of Hindutva ideology on demographic changes in IIOJK, stressing the need for resistance against India’s oppressive measures. He pointed out the failure of recent elections to legitimize BJP’s control over the region.
The seminar shed light on India’s non-compliance with UN resolutions and urged the global community to act. Dr. Khurram Abbas of the India Study Centre highlighted the importance of ensuring the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination as guaranteed by international law.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman ISSI, concluded the seminar by reiterating the need for the United Nations to take a more proactive role in addressing this long-standing dispute. He emphasized the issue’s significance for regional peace in a nuclearized environment.
The seminar was well-attended by scholars, diplomats, and civil society members, reflecting broad concern over the unresolved Kashmir issue.
