ANKARA (Special Correspondent) – The Embassy of Pakistan in Ankara commemorated Kashmir Black Day on 27 October 2026, hosting a solemn ceremony to reaffirm Islamabad’s unwavering support for the inalienable right to self-determination for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The event drew a diverse gathering of Turkish dignitaries, politicians, and members of the diplomatic community to express collective solidarity with the Kashmiri cause.

Key Points

• The ceremony marked the anniversary of 27 October 1947, reflecting on the historical struggle of the Kashmiri people.
• Speakers emphasized that the Kashmir issue remains a matter of human dignity and international justice.
• The event drew parallels between the situations in Kashmir and Palestine, calling for consistent international focus on both disputes.
• Pakistan’s representative urged adherence to United Nations (UN) resolutions for a peaceful settlement of the region.
• Officials criticized the Indian decision in April 2025 to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, calling for stability in regional water security.

Reflections on Kashmir and Regional Stability

During the proceedings, which included a documentary on the historical significance of the movement, Mr Güray Alpar, President of the Geopolitical Foresight Institute, noted that the international community has often overlooked the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. He argued that the regional peace and security of South Asia depends on addressing such long-standing human rights concerns.

Mr Mustafa Kaya, Deputy Chairman of the Felicity Party (Saadet Partisi), addressed the assembly by drawing comparisons between the political dynamics in the occupied Palestinian territories and those in Kashmir. He suggested that the resolution of both conflicts is vital for global stability, noting that these issues are deeply interconnected through the shared struggle for self-determination.

Call for International Adherence to Law

Prof. Dr. Recep Akdağ, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health of Türkiye, emphasized that conflict resolution requires a foundation of dialogue and strict adherence to international legal frameworks. He reiterated that the people of Kashmir possess an inherent right to determine their future, a principle supported by various United Nations resolutions.

Concluding the event, Mr Shaiq Ahmed Bhutto, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Pakistan in Ankara, asserted that the duration of a dispute does not diminish the necessity for its resolution. He voiced significant concern regarding India’s unilateral decision in April 2025 to place the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance. Mr Bhutto highlighted that water resources should not be utilized as tools for political coercion, urging all parties to respect existing treaty obligations to ensure regional stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary purpose of the ceremony in Ankara?

The ceremony was held to observe Kashmir Black Day and express solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir regarding their right to self-determination.

What concerns were raised regarding the Indus Waters Treaty?

The Pakistani Chargé d’Affaires expressed strong condemnation of India’s decision to hold the treaty in abeyance, emphasizing that it remains a critical component of regional water security.