Seminar on Kashmir Solidarity Day - Unwavering Turkish support for the oppressed people of Kashmir

(from left to right): Ambassador M. Haroon Shaukat, Mr. Burhan Kayaturk, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kamalak and Prof. Dr. Oya Akgönenç sharing stage during Kashmir Solidarity Day in Ankara on Tuesday evening, 5^th February 2013

ANKARA, February 6: Participants of a seminar expressed their full support to the oppressed people of Kashmir and their democratic right to self-determination. The seminar, to commemorate Kashmir Solidarity Day, was organized by Turkey-Pakistan Cultural Association in collaboration with Ankara University.

While addressing the participants, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Kamalak, Chairman of Saadet Party said the people of Turkey shall always support the cause of the oppressed Kashmiri people. He said international community should pay attention towards resolving Kashmir, Cyprus and Palestine issues where the Muslims are suffering since decades.

Prof. Dr. Oya Akgönenç, a noted academician, writer and former member of Turkish Grand National Assembly, explained the historical perspective of Kashmir. She said regional peace is dependent upon the resolution of the Kashmir issue according to the wishes of the Kashmiri people. She said Indian forces in the Occupied Kashmir are violating human rights and have killed thousands of innocent Kashmiris including women and children.

Mr. Burhan Kayaturk, President of Turkey-Pakistan Cultural Association and member of Turkish Grand National Assembly stressed on the need to resolve Kashmir issue through dialogue. He said Turkey will continue to play a positive role and shall support efforts aimed at resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkey H.E. Mr. Muhammad Haroon Shaukat said Pakistan remains committed to a meaningful, sustained and result-oriented dialogue with India to resolve all outstanding issues, most importantly, the core dispute of Kashmir. He reiterated the unwavering political, moral and diplomatic support of the people and Government of Pakistan to the just struggle of Kashmiri people to safeguard their fundamental rights including their right to self-determination. He acknowledged the historical support of the people and Government of Turkey in this regard.