BERLIN (Special Correspondent) – The Embassy of Pakistan in Berlin organized a seminar on 28 October 2026 to observe Jammu & Kashmir Black Day, an annual commemoration marking the 1947 arrival of Indian forces in Srinagar. The event reaffirmed Pakistan’s political, diplomatic, and moral support for the people of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir in their pursuit of the right to self-determination. This Jammu and Kashmir Black Day seminar served as a platform for dialogue among the Pakistani and Kashmiri diaspora, German civil society, and academics.

Key Points

• The seminar marked the anniversary of the landing of Indian forces in Srinagar in 1947.
• Participants reaffirmed diplomatic support for the Kashmiri right to self-determination.
• Ambassador Salman Sharif emphasized the need for a resolution based on United Nations Security Council resolutions.
• Guest speakers and activists highlighted alleged human rights concerns and fundamental freedoms in the territory.
• The event concluded with a photographic exhibition and collective prayers for the Kashmiri people.

Addressing the Kashmir Dispute

The proceedings commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthems of Pakistan, Germany, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Official messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister of Pakistan were formally read to the assembly, outlining the nation’s consistent policy on the Kashmir dispute. Ambassador Salman Sharif provided a detailed overview of the historical context of the conflict. He emphasized that regional stability in South Asia remains inextricably linked to a peaceful resolution of the dispute, aligned with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the democratic aspirations of the Kashmiri population.

Perspectives on Human Rights and Solidarity

The event featured insights from various prominent figures, including Volker Tschapke, Honorary President of the Prussian Society, and Hans Dube, who discussed the international significance of the Kashmir issue. Additionally, Kashmiri activists Altaf Hussain Wani, Shamim Shawl, and Ali Raza Syed addressed the attendees via video link. They presented reports regarding arbitrary detentions, demographic shifts, and the curtailment of fundamental rights within the region. Following these presentations, a documentary chronicling the experiences of the Kashmiri people was screened. Guests also toured a photographic exhibition hosted at the Embassy, which displayed images detailing alleged human rights violations alongside displays representing the struggle for freedom. The seminar concluded with a collective prayer dedicated to the peace and progress of the Kashmiri people, as those in attendance pledged to continue fostering awareness about the cause across Germany.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Pakistan observe October 27 as Black Day?

Pakistan marks October 27 as Jammu & Kashmir Black Day to commemorate the 1947 arrival of Indian forces in Srinagar.

What was the main goal of the seminar held in Berlin?

The seminar sought to reaffirm Pakistan’s political, diplomatic, and moral support for the people of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and to raise awareness about the ongoing dispute.