Pakistan marks International Day of Peace with messages from President and PM

On the International Day of Peace, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a culture of peace and tolerance among nations.

This year's theme, “Cultivating a culture of peace,” emphasises the importance of coexistence and understanding in a world marked by geopolitical tensions.

In a statement, President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the ongoing violence in Palestine, describing Israel's actions as genocidal. He highlighted the urgent need to address human rights violations occurring in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, where the Hindutva-inspired Modi regime has been accused of persecuting Muslims and minorities.

President Zardari stressed that the international community must speak out against oppression and focus on humanity's pressing issues, including poverty and inequality. “The world cannot achieve progress and development in the absence of peace as wars and conflicts increase people's problems and miseries,” he said, calling for collective efforts to promote respect for human dignity.

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif echoed these sentiments, emphasising the need for dialogue to resolve longstanding regional disputes. He called for a fair and just settlement of the Kashmir issue through an impartial plebiscite, as per relevant UN Security Council Resolutions.

The Prime Minister also addressed the plight of Palestinians, urging the need for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in accordance with UN mandates. “For lasting peace in the Middle East, peaceful resolution of the dispute according to the UN resolutions and aspirations of the Palestinians is need of the hour” he stated.

As Pakistan joins the global community in promoting a peaceful world, leaders reiterated their commitment to work collaboratively to build a harmonious future for generations to come.