Pakistan calls on UN to guarantee right of self-determination to Kashmiris, Palestinians
https://www.dawn.com/news/2034569
Pakistan has urged the United Nations to uphold its previous resolutions ensuring self-determination rights for Kashmiris and Palestinians, emphasizing the need for uniform application of international law. Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Pakistan's deputy representative to the UN, pointed out that Kashmiris have been waiting for the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions for almost eight decades, including a UN-monitored free and impartial plebiscite.
He accused India of ramping up repression and infringing on fundamental freedoms in the disputed region since August 5, 2019, including arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and restrictions on expression and peaceful assembly. Jadoon stressed that rights delayed for generations do not become denied.
India's representative, Bhavika Mangalanandan, argued that Kashmir is an "internal matter" and Pakistan responded by reaffirming that Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognized disputed territory whose final status should be decided based on the people's wishes and relevant UN resolutions. Jadoon highlighted the Palestinian struggle, calling for protection of civilians, unimpeded humanitarian aid, respect for international law, and accountability, asserting the Palestinian right to self-determination.
He also called for attention to the right to development, describing it as an unalienable human right and a prerequisite for fulfilling other rights. Pakistan expressed concern over the rise of Islamophobia, urging the UN to take action following the March 15 International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
On artificial intelligence and technology, Jadoon noted that these advancements could enhance education, healthcare, and opportunities, but they must remain human-centric, inclusive, and accessible, particularly for developing countries. During an Indian right of reply, Mangalanandan accused Pakistan of terrorist involvement and mistreatment of minorities, while Pakistan’s first secretary to the UN, Sarfraz Ahmed Gohar, denied these claims, stating that Jammu and Kashmir has never and will never be an integral part of India.
Gohar accused India of rights violations against religious minorities and supporting militant groups, reiterating Pakistan's commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue, diplomacy, and the UN Charter. Gohar urged India to follow a similar path for regional peace, stability, and security.
Written by urgent.news from Dawn - Pakistan's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
