Kashmir Integral Part of Pakistan: Shehbaz Sharif’s Remarks Rekindle Tensions!

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again made provocative remarks on the Kashmir issue, claiming that the region is an integral part of Pakistan. Addressing the PoK Assembly on the occasion of Kashmir Solidarity Day, Sharif said that the Kashmir dispute had resurfaced diplomatically following the clashes between India and Pakistan in May last year. He further alleged that India was fueling terrorism through indirect means, making baseless accusations against New Delhi.

Sharif stated that respecting the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and implementing United Nations Security Council resolutions was the only viable solution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. Claiming that Pakistan seeks peace, he said that Kashmir has been described as Pakistan’s “jugular vein” since the time of Muhammad Ali Jinnah and continues to remain central to the country’s foreign policy. Notably, he referred to slain Hizbul commander Burhan Wani and separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani, drawing sharp attention to Pakistan’s continued rhetoric on the issue.