Pakistan rejects UK-linked remarks on Azad Kashmir

Pakistan has rejected what it called unnecessary, irresponsible and misinformed remarks made by some UK-based individuals and British parliamentarians regarding the situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The Foreign Office said Pakistan and the Azad Kashmir government recognize citizens’ right to peaceful assembly, but stressed that violence, damage to public institutions and attacks on civilians or law enforcement personnel cannot be permitted under any circumstances.

The Foreign Office spokesperson said UK residents should refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He said such individuals should play a positive role for the betterment of the countries and communities where they currently reside. 

Pakistan also expressed concern over irresponsible and misinformed statements made by some people living in the United Kingdom.

Remarks by British MPs noted

The Foreign Office said it had taken note of unnecessary remarks and questions raised by some British members of parliament. According to the spokesperson, these remarks reflect a lack of understanding of the historical background of Kashmir.

The spokesperson said Pakistan wants to remind those “living in the colonial era” that Pakistan is a sovereign democratic country.

Pakistan stresses sovereignty and non-interference

The Foreign Office said Pakistan firmly believes in the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. Islamabad expects the same respect from others, the spokesperson added.

The statement said the democratic process, judicial decisions, the rule of law and the constitution must be respected.

Peaceful protest is recognised, violence is not

The spokesperson said the governments of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir recognize the right of citizens to peaceful assembly. Pakistan also respects constitutional rights, including freedom of expression and participation in the democratic process.

However, the Foreign Office made clear that vandalism and destruction of public service institutions, including hospitals, cannot be allowed.

The spokesperson said the killing of innocent civilians and law enforcement officials is not permissible under any circumstances. The Foreign Office said no democratic society can accept violence under the cover of protest or political activity.

It urged all sides to respect legal and constitutional limits.

Support for banned groups

Pakistan urged the British government to stop individuals who are supporting banned organizations. The Foreign Office said support for such groups undermines law, order and democratic norms.

The spokesperson said Pakistan would continue to uphold the writ of the state while respecting legitimate democratic rights.