Kashmir solution indispensable for regional peace: CM

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has termed a peaceful solution to the Kashmir issue indispensable for lasting peace in the region.

"Like every Pakistani, Kashmir is very close to my heart. We strongly condemn Indian occupation of Kashmir besides the atrocities of Indian occupying forces on innocent Kashmiris," she stated in her message on the 77th Black Day against Indian usurpation of Kashmir.

She added, "I pay tribute to the sacrifices of Kashmiri brothers and sisters. Brave Kashmiris are striving for their right of self-determination in the face of Indian oppression and injustice."

The chief minister said, "People of Pakistan have always stood by their Kashmiri brothers are sisters. Every citizen of Pakistan prays for the freedom of Occupied Jammu and Kashmir."

She said, "We will convey the voice of Kashmiris to the world community on all international diplomatic fora, and will do everything possible to resolve the Kashmir issue." Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz added, "We appeal to the international community to play its role for the protection of the rights of Kashmiris. The future of Kashmir is bright, I am sure their sacrifices will definitely pay off."

A ceremony was organised at Alhamra Art Centre to mark Kashmir Black Day. A large number of people from different walks of life attended the ceremony.

The program included songs supporting Kashmiris' freedom struggle and participants raised passionate slogans advocating for Kashmir's independence from Indian occupation.

Punjab Information Secretary Tahir Raza Hamdani inaugurated a photo exhibition depicting the atrocities and state-sponsored oppression in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The event concluded with a rally from Alhamra Centre to Governor's House, where participants chanted slogans for Kashmir's freedom, holding banners inscribed with messages of support for the Kashmir cause.