UN Chief raises concerns over violation of human rights in IoK

United Nations General Secretary Antonio Guterres has raised concerns over the violation of human rights in Indian occupied Kashmir.

Addressing a joint press conference with Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi today (Sunday), the UN Chief said, “I have serious concerns over the ongoing issue between Pakistan and India.”

He said that the only way forward to resolve the Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India is dialogue.

Antonio Guterres said that both countries should show restraint at the working boundaries and ensure that the strife does not escalate into something regrettable.

Guterres also appreciated the improved security situation of Pakistan and said that it was now time that the world should see the positive image of Pakistan.

He also appreciated the hospitality of Pakistan and said that he had been to the country several times in the past but not as the UN Chief.

Commenting on Pakistan’s effort for becoming the second biggest refugee in the world, he said that Pakistan has embraced refugees from across the world.

Commenting on rising Islamophobia in the world, Guterres said that the notion of someone being an Islamophobe and the general idea of Islamophobia both were detrimental to peace and reconciliation efforts among countries and meddled with interfaith harmony among individuals.

On the occasion, FM Qureshi said that a very important and fruitful meeting was held between them on the matter of Occupied Kashmir.

FM Qureshi said that the UN must ensure resolutions pertaining to Kashmir are adhered to and implemented.

Referring to Pakistan’s role in the Afghan Peace Process, FM Qureshi said that Pakistan holds an integral responsibility in the process and will stand by it till the matter reached its amicable end.

During his four-day stay, the UN Chief will call on President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan.