ANKARA (Special Correspondent) – The Embassy of Pakistan in Ankara commemorated Kashmir Black Day on 27 October 2026, hosting a ceremony to reaffirm Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. The event served to highlight the ongoing Kashmir Black Day, drawing attention to the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Key Points

• The event brought together Turkish dignitaries, diplomatic community members, and Pakistani residents in Ankara.
• Speakers emphasized that the struggle for Kashmiri self-determination is a fundamental issue of human dignity.
• Diplomats and political figures drew parallels between the situations in Kashmir and the Palestinian territories.
• Chargé d’Affaires Shaiq Ahmed Bhutto condemned the unilateral move by India to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance.

Reflecting on Historical Context and International Solidarity

The program, which featured a documentary on the historical struggle, included addresses from prominent Turkish figures, including Mr Güray Alpar, President of the Geopolitical Foresight Institute, and Mr Mustafa Kaya, Deputy Chairman of the Felicity Party (Saadet Partisi). Participants noted that the global community must increase its attention toward the legitimate aspirations of the Kashmiri population.

Prof. Dr. Recep Akdağ, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health of Türkiye, underscored that justice and dialogue remain the essential pillars for resolving long-standing regional conflicts. He stressed that any resolution must align with the relevant United Nations resolutions to ensure the people of Kashmir can determine their own future.

Pakistan’s Position on Regional Stability and Treaties

In his closing remarks, Mr Shaiq Ahmed Bhutto, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Pakistan, stated that the duration of a dispute does not negate its necessity for a resolution. He reaffirmed that Pakistan continues to advocate for a peaceful settlement rooted in international law and the specific mandates of the United Nations Security Council.

Addressing regional security, Mr Bhutto raised concerns regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, which he noted was placed in abeyance by India in April 2025. He argued that the treaty is a vital component of water security and warned against using shared resources as political tools, urging all parties to respect existing treaty obligations to maintain stability in the region. Consistent with regional diplomatic efforts, Pakistan maintains a focus on broader cooperation, similar to recent discussions held on regional peace and security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary purpose of the Kashmir Black Day event in Ankara?

The ceremony was held to express solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and to reaffirm Pakistan’s support for their right to self-determination.

What concerns did the Embassy of Pakistan raise regarding the Indus Waters Treaty?

Chargé d’Affaires Shaiq Ahmed Bhutto expressed concern over India’s April 2025 decision to hold the treaty in abeyance, emphasizing that water resources should not be leveraged for political pressure.