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ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Wednesday recent developments in the Middle East reflect that protracted international disputes should not be allowed to fester, as Pakistan marked Kashmir Solidarity Day with the premier traveling to the Himalayan region to address the Azad Kashmir Legislative Assembly.
Kashmir, known for the mesmerizing beauty of its lakes and snowcapped mountains, has remained contested between India and Pakistan since their independence in August 1947. The two South Asian nuclear rivals both claim it in full but control only parts of it. They have fought wars over the region and continue diplomatic efforts to highlight their respective political positions on the issue.
Pakistan accuses India of committing human rights violations in the region while denying the Kashmiri people their right to self-determination. India, in turn, blames Pakistan for fomenting militancy in the region. Both states reject each other’s accusations.
“The right to self-determination is a fundamental principle of international law,” Sharif said in a statement issued by his office. “Every year, the UN General Assembly adopts a resolution that stresses the legal right of people to decide their own destiny. Regrettably, the Kashmiri people have not been able to exercise this inalienable right, notwithstanding the passage of last seventy-eight years.”
“The recent developments in the Middle East amply show that long-standing disputes should not be allowed to fester,” he added. “A lasting peace cannot be achieved by suppressing the genuine aspirations of the local people.”
Sharif urged the international community to press India to allow the Kashmiri people to determine their own future, saying the issue was “a key pillar” of Pakistan’s foreign policy and reiterating the country’s “unwavering moral, diplomatic and political support” for the Kashmiri people.
“I also avail myself of this opportunity to salute the resolve and courage of the valiant Kashmiri people, who continue to render innumerable sacrifices in their struggle to achieve their fundamental rights and freedoms,” he said.
The Prime Minister’s Office also announced that Sharif had embarked on a daylong visit to Azad Kashmir under Pakistan’s administration to address the region’s legislative assembly. During his visit, he is expected to meet leaders of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, a coalition of Kashmiri separatist groups resisting Indian rule.
Kashmir Solidarity Day is observed in Pakistan on February 5 each year to express support for the people of Indian-administered Kashmir. Different groups across the country are also expected to hold rallies to discuss the issue.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday pledged to provide maximum facilities to overseas Pakistanis, recognizing their contribution to the national economy and highlighting that remittances had increased by 30 percent due to their hard work and commitment.
Remittances are a lifeline for Pakistan’s cash-strapped economy, playing a critical role in stabilizing foreign exchange reserves and supporting balance of payments.
The country’s central bank last month reported $3.1 billion in remittance inflows for December 2024, reflecting a 29.3 percent year-on-year growth.
The State Bank of Pakistan also noted a 5.6 percent increase in remittances compared to November 2024, highlighting the importance of expatriate earnings in shoring up the nation’s finances.
“We will make every effort to resolve your issues and ensure that your voice is heard at the highest level,” the prime minister said while addressing the Overseas Pakistanis Global Foundation Convention, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan.
“Your efforts have greatly benefited the national exchequer, bolstering the country’s reserves and reinforcing our economic standing,” he continued while mentioning 30 percent remittance increase in December.
Sharif directed the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development to restore the Green Channel initiative to facilitate expatriates and announced the formation of a body to recognize distinguished diaspora members contributing to national development.
He also commended Pakistanis living abroad who, after gaining top-tier training, have returned to help drive economic growth as experts, investors and entrepreneurs.
“Many of you have returned home with valuable expertise, and your continued investments in the country’s economy are vital to our future,” he added.