By Umer Nangiana/Doha
The Pakistan embassy in Qatar yesterday observed “Kashmir Black Day” at a programme attended by a large number of people.
Addressing the gathering, speakers highlighted that Kashmir was one of the most important issues of the era, a flashpoint for a bigger disaster. The international community should pay immediate attention to the issue and work towards its resolution in accordance with the United Nations resolutions on Kashmir, they noted.
Speaking on the occasion, Maroof Tahir, a professor at Qatar University (QU), said most people in the world, including those living in the US, did not have a clear idea about the Kashmir issue.
“They think it is probably a small dispute between India and Pakistan, perhaps over a piece of land. It is not. It is a much wider issue, one of right to self-determination for the people of Kashmir, which was granted to them by a UN resolution,” said Tahir.
He urged the international community to play its due role in getting the people of Kashmir their right to self-determination.
Farhan Mujahid Chak, a professor of international relations from QU, stressed the need for unity among Kashmiris living on both sides of the border in order for them to achieve a quick resolution.
“This problem cannot be solved until Kashmiris themselves unite and raise a united voice. Depending on others for the resolution of their own problem will not work,” said Chak.
The professor went on to say that Kashmir is not a bilateral issue - it is an international issue and should be treated as such. While acknowledging “Pakistan’s efforts and contribution in highlighting the issue before the international community”, Chak advised Pakistan to establish cordial relations with its neighbours such as Afghanistan and China.
“You need friends. I would advise Pakistan to have good relations with Afghanistan, and others, because it would have a direct effect on the Kashmir issue,” said Chak.
Speaking on the occasion, Pakistan’s ambassador to Qatar, Shahzad Ahmad, said his country has always raised its voice for the rights of the people of Kashmir, and will continue to do so.
“The government of Pakistan has always raised its voice for the people of Kashmir at every platform and the United Nations, and will continue to raise it until Kashmiris get their rights,” said ambassador Ahmad.
He thanked the community members for their participation in the programme.