MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq on Sunday paid tributes to the chief of the army staff for once again articulating Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir issue.

“By forcefully echoing the aspirations of the Kashmiri people in his address at the maritime warriors’ parade, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has not only reaffirmed Pakistan’s historic position but also reminded the world that the Kashmir issue remains central to peace and stability in South Asia,” the AJK premier said in a statement. Mr Haq said the field marshal’s remarks were a powerful demonstration of Pakistan’s bond with the oppressed people of Indian-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK).

“His words are a testament to Pakistan’s unwavering moral, diplomatic and political support for the Kashmir cause,” he said, adding that “the people of AJK deeply value this consistent and courageous advocacy, which reflects our shared resolve for a just and peaceful resolution of the longstanding dispute”.

Referring to the field marshal’s observation that the Kashmiri struggle for freedom was a legitimate movement and not terrorism, the AJK premier said: “India may try to malign our struggle with false narratives, but the world knows the difference between a people’s fight for their rights and acts of terror.”

“Our enemy, India, is intoxicated by arrogance and driven by hegemonic ambitions. But the people of Kashmir and Pakistan are united in exposing its lies and resisting its oppression.”

The AJK prime minister asserted that the armed forces of Pakistan and the Kashmiri people were on the same page when it came to defending the rights of the Kashmiri nation.

Reiterating his commitment to the freedom movement, Mr Haq said: “The freedom struggle will continue until the Kashmiris attain their right to self-determination in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the mission of completing Pakistan is accomplished.”

Published in Dawn, June 30th, 2025