Kashmir Solidarity Day observed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD - Kashmiris in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir Friday observed Kashmir Solidarity Day Friday to express their solidarity with the people of Kashmir.

The day was observed, as every year, with great enthusiasm to reaffirm the vow that Kashmiris will not be left behind until their rights are achieved, Online news agency reported.

The day started with special prayers in the mosques for all Kashmiri martyrs,

for the freedom of Kashmir and for the progress of Pakistan.

As a token of respect, one minute of silence was observed in the country to pay tribute to all the martyrs of Kashmir.

One of the main features of the day was the formation of a human chain at Kohala

Bridge in Pakistan-administered Kashmir to convey a message to the world community that the people of Kashmir are not alone.

Ministers from each province also joined the human chain.

Kashmiris in the US, Britain and Europe also held different ceremonies on the occasion.

In a message on the occasion, President Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan remained firmly committed to finding a just and peaceful solution of the Kashmir dispute and stressed that the Kashmiris should be associated with the dialogue process.

Pakistan would persist in its efforts for seeking a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, he said.

We are of the firm belief that the Kashmiris should be associated with the dialogue process. Ultimately, Kashmiris would be the final arbiters of their destiny, Zardari added.

We shall stand always with them (Kashmiris) in their just struggle, the president said, adding: I reiterate to our Kashmiri brothers and sisters our pledge that they have our full moral, diplomatic and political support. We shall stand always with them in their just struggle.

In his message, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said: Pakistan assures the Kashmiri people of its firm resolve to work steadfastly for the realization of their fundamental rights.