No change in Pakistan's principled stand on Kashmir issue: FO

Spokesperson says PM only reiterated country's long-held position, support for Kashmiris' right to self-determination

The Foreign Office on Friday clarified that there is no change in Pakistan's principled position on the Kashmir dispute that remains anchored in the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions.

In his address on the occasion of Kashmir Solidarity Day at Kotli, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Imran Khan reiterated Pakistan's long-held position and support for the Kashmiris' right to self-determination.

The premier said that the entirety of Pakistan stands united for the cause of Kashmir, saying the United Nations has not been able to honour its promise made to the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

"We want an end to the atrocities and barbarities being committed in Kashmir," PM Imran said, adding, "Kashmiris should be given the right to decide their fate."

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"The issue of Kashmir has been lingering since 1948 and it could be resolved along the lines of resolution of other international disputes, such as East Timor," the premier said while addressing a mammoth solidarity rally in Kotli, Azad Kashmir.

"I invited [Indian PM Narendra] Modi several times to come to the table of dialogue as it is the only viable solution," PM Imran said.

Responding to media query after the PM's address, Foreign Office Spokesperson Zahid Chaudhri, in a statement, said that there is no change in Pakistan's principled position on IIOJK dispute that remains anchored in the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions.

"The prime minister repeatedly spoke about the UNSC resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir and underscored the need for implementation of those resolutions," he added.

He also said that Pakistan remains firmly committed to the resolution of Kashmir dispute through free and impartial plebiscite under the UN auspices as enshrined in the relevant UNSC resolutions.

Pakistan observed Kashmir Solidarity Day today (Feb 5), with public rallies held across the country in a bid to express support to Kashmiris in their struggle and inalienable right to self-determination as per the resolutions of the United Nations.