MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) President Barrister Sultan Mahmood has called on the Kashmiri diaspora, particularly those residing in the UK, to actively highlight the Kashmir issue on international forums and expose India’s ongoing atrocities in the occupied region.

He made this appeal during a detailed meeting with Lord Qurban Hussain, a member of the British House of Lords of Kashmiri origin, at Kashmir House in Islamabad on Monday.

President Mahmood pointed out that since August 5, 2019, India had intensified its oppression in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, leaving many Kashmiris homeless in their own land.

“India’s inhuman acts constitute severe violations of international human rights. Under such circumstances, it is imperative for Kashmiris worldwide, especially in the United Kingdom, to unite and actively expose India’s malicious actions to the global community,” he said.

According to a press release from the president’s office, Lord Hussain assured President Mahmood of his commitment to raising the Kashmir issue on international platforms, particularly within the British Parliament, and exposing India’s shameful actions.

Lord Hussain also highlighted the longstanding demand for an international airport in Mirpur, noting that such a facility would greatly benefit the large number of Mirpur residents living abroad by providing them with convenient international travel options.

He urged the AJK president to advocate for this project, stating that he had already discussed the matter with President Asif Ali Zardari and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

In response, President Mahmood assured Lord Hussain that he would also expedite his efforts to facilitate the construction of an international airport in Mirpur.

Commending President Mahmood’s contribution to bringing global attention to the Kashmir issue, Lord Hussain invited him to visit the UK and address British parliamentarians.

Accepting to the invitation, President Mahmood said he would soon visit the UK to brief British lawmakers about the ongoing Indian atrocities in occupied Jammu and Kashmir as part of his consistent efforts to expose India’s grim and sinister face to the world.

Published in Dawn, December 31st, 2024