Federal Minister and Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir, Rana Muhammad Qasim Noon, emphasized that enduring peace in South Asia hinges on resolving the Kashmir dispute. He noted that most demands from Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) have been accepted, urging that remaining issues be tackled through dialogue and political engagement.
During his visit to Dallas, Texas, Noon spoke about the recent developments in AJK, the demands of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), concerns among the Kashmiri diaspora, the broader Kashmir conflict, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to the United States and the United Nations, civil-military relations, and prospects for political dialogue with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Addressing the frustration among overseas Kashmiris over unrest and casualties in AJK, Noon suggested that some portrayals abroad did not fully capture the on-ground reality. He described the Kashmir issue as an “internal matter,” comparing tensions to disagreements within a family that can be resolved through engagement. He expressed optimism that the newly formed AJK government would gradually stabilize the situation.
Noon called on the Kashmiri diaspora to assess developments with reason and objectivity, emphasizing the inseparable bond between Pakistan and Kashmir. He remarked, “Pakistaniyat and Kashmiriyat are not separate from each other,” and noted that political or administrative differences should not be seen as a break in their relationship.
Regarding the JAAC’s demands, Noon stated that the majority had already been addressed. He accused certain groups of exaggerating the unrest and claimed external actors were exploiting the situation for their own agendas. Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for Kashmiris politically, morally, geographically, religiously, and socially, he reiterated that Kashmir remains a core national priority for Islamabad.
He distinguished the situation in AJK from that in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), highlighting the continued heavy military presence and reported human rights abuses in the latter. In a significant development, Noon praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s forceful presentation of Pakistan’s Kashmir stance at the United Nations General Assembly, describing him as a statesman on key regional and global issues.
Recent tensions between Pakistan and India, Noon observed, have once again drawn international focus to the Kashmir dispute. He confirmed that AJK has seen the formation of a new government, establishment of ministries, and a presidential election, expressing confidence that remaining matters can be resolved through consultation among all stakeholders.
On the possibility of talks with PTI, Noon stressed that political differences must be settled through dialogue, stating, “Dialogue should take place, issues should be resolved. Dialogue is the only solution.”
Leave an opinion