Pakistan Reaffirms Sovereignty After Criticism from UK Diaspora on AJK Situation

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has termed the statements made by some diaspora members and British MPs living in the UK regarding Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) as “baseless and irresponsible” and clarified that any interference in the internal affairs of the country cannot be accepted.

A statement issued by the Foreign Office spokesperson said that Pakistan has taken notice of the comments and questions made by these individuals which are based on “misunderstanding and ignorance of the historical background” regarding the situation in Azad Kashmir. The statement said that such individuals should play a positive role in their country of residence and refrain from unnecessary statements.

The Foreign Office clarified in its position that Pakistan is a sovereign and democratic state which strictly adheres to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries and expects the same from other countries. According to the spokesperson, giving irresponsible opinions on the internal affairs of any state is against diplomatic etiquette.

The statement said that the governments of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir recognise and respect the peaceful protest of citizens, freedom of expression and democratic process; however, any kind of vandalism, destruction of public property or attacks on law enforcement agencies cannot be allowed.

The Foreign Office also appealed to the British government to warn those elements who are allegedly supporting banned organisations so that they can express their views within the ambit of the law and respect constitutional and judicial decisions.

This statement has come at a time when security tension is being seen increasing in different areas of Azad Kashmir following the recent protest situation. According to reports, several people were killed in clashes between police and protesters in Rawalakot, after which the situation in the area has become more tense.

Authorities have claimed that the protesters attacked a government medical centre, while on the other hand, protesting circles are raising questions about the government’s actions. Following this situation, the Azad Kashmir government has declared the Joint Public Action Committee (JPAC) illegal and has intensified its actions against it.

According to political and diplomatic experts, the current situation is not only a challenge to internal peace and order but also an important step to clarify Pakistan’s position at the international level. According to them, the government is trying to keep the situation under control by keeping it within the legal and constitutional framework.

The Foreign Office stressed in its statement that Pakistan believes in resolving all issues through constitutional and democratic means, and any kind of external interference or misunderstanding-based statements can further complicate the situation in the region.