Community unites to mark “Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir” and honor the resilience of Kashmiris
JEDDAH, August 5, 2024 – The Consulate General of Pakistan in Jeddah, along with the Pakistani and Kashmiri communities, observed Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir to express solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJ&K). The day marks five years since India revoked the region’s special status and imposed direct central rule.
Messages of Unity and Support:
The main ceremony was held at the Consulate premises. Messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister of Pakistan were read aloud. These highlighted Pakistan’s unwavering support for Kashmiris and emphasized the importance of global awareness.
A documentary was also screened, offering a visual account of the harsh realities faced by residents in IIOJ&K. It aimed to deepen the audience’s understanding of the ongoing human rights violations.
Distinguished Speakers and Youth Participation:
The event featured several prominent speakers, including:
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Mr. Muhammad Farooq Rehmani, veteran Kashmiri leader and former Convener of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC)
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Mr. Masood Ahmed Puri, Chairman of the Kashmir Committee Jeddah
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Sardar Ashfaq Khan, Acting Chairman of Jammu & Kashmir Community Overseas (JKCO)
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Mr. Khalid Majid, Consul General of Pakistan in Jeddah
In addition, students from two Pakistani community schools delivered speeches, offering a youth perspective on the Kashmir conflict.
Key Themes: History, Resilience, and Diplomacy:
Speakers outlined the historical background of the Kashmir dispute. They condemned the unilateral actions of August 5, 2019, and praised the resilience of the Kashmiri people.
They also acknowledged the positive role of Saudi Arabia and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in raising international concern for the Kashmir cause. Proposals for a peaceful and lasting resolution were also presented.
Strong Community Presence:
A large number of attendees from the Pakistani and Kashmiri communities were present, along with representatives from ethnic media. The event concluded with a collective prayer. Participants prayed for the martyrs of the Kashmir cause and for peace and prosperity in Pakistan.
This annual observance serves as a powerful reminder of Pakistan’s commitment to advocating for the rights of the Kashmiri people and working toward a peaceful resolution in line with international law.
