Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday warned that lasting peace in South Asia cannot be achieved until India abandons its aggressive and expansionist policies. Speaking at a special session on Kashmir Solidarity Day at the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) legislative assembly in Muzaffarabad, the premier emphasized Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri people.
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Highlighting the sacrifices of Kashmiris, PM Shehbaz said, “History shows Kashmiris are ready to sacrifice their children but never their freedom.” He paid tribute to the martyrs of the freedom movement and recalled the vision of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who described Kashmir as the “jugular vein of Pakistan.”
The prime minister’s remarks come amid recent attacks in Balochistan, attributed to India-backed Fitna al-Hindustan – Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) terrorists. The ISPR confirmed that Operation Raddul Fitna 1 concluded successfully, eliminating 216 terrorists, though 36 civilians and 22 security personnel lost their lives during the operations.
PM Shehbaz praised Pakistan’s decisive victory in the Marka-e-Haq conflict last year, which, he said, humbled Indian arrogance and revived the Kashmir cause on the global stage. He stressed that India must grant Kashmiris the right to self-determination.
Underlining Pakistan’s commitment to peace, the premier stated, “Peace must be based on equality and justice, and Pakistan will continue its role in practical conflict resolution.” He warned that India would face a firm response to any aggression.
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In addition, PM Shehbaz announced plans to establish new educational institutions, including Danish School campuses and a university in Muzaffarabad, aimed at improving education, health, and infrastructure in AJK. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled stance on Palestine and Kashmir, calling for unity to counter India’s narratives and promote regional stability.