Islamabad (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid rich tribute to the founding leader of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) Syed Ali on his fourth death anniversary remembering his lifelong struggle for the rights of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
President Zardari, in his message, said that Syed Ali Gilani devoted his entire life to the Kashmir cause, particularly the right to self-determination.
He emphasized that despite decades of Indian oppression and harsh tactics, Gilani remained steadfast in his commitment to the freedom movement and never let his courage waver.
The president reaffirmed Pakistan's firm resolve to continue highlighting the plight of Kashmiris at all global forums and reiterated that the ongoing Indian repression would not be able to break the spirit of the Kashmiri people.
He insisted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir must be allowed to decide their future in line with United Nations (UN) resolutions.
PM Shehbaz Sharif also remembered Syed Ali Gilani with great reverence, calling his unwavering love for Pakistan a source of immense pride.
He noted that Gilani’s famous slogan, “We are Pakistanis, Pakistan is ours,” continues to inspire the people of Kashmir and stands as a symbol of their unbreakable emotional and spiritual connection with Pakistan.
The prime minister said that Gilani’s legacy lives on through this slogan, which still resonates across the region and challenges the occupying forces.
Meanwhile, Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, Engineer Amir Muqam, also issued a heartfelt message marking the day.
He described Syed Ali Gilani as a towering figure in the Kashmir freedom struggle whose leadership and sacrifices made him the voice of the oppressed Kashmiri population.
Despite facing severe repression, Muqam said, Gilani never bowed to Indian authority and remained committed to the principle of self-determination.
The minister described the veteran leader’s resilience as a guiding light for future generations of Kashmiris.
He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmir cause, emphasizing continued political, diplomatic, and moral assistance to the people of IIOJK.
He echoed Gilani’s iconic slogan and said it continues to live on the tongues of Kashmiri youth, serving as a powerful expression of resistance.
The minister urged the UN and the broader international community to break their silence on the widespread human rights abuses in the region and to play their role in ensuring justice and dignity for the Kashmiri people.
The day served as a solemn reminder of Syed Ali Gilani’s unmatched legacy and Pakistan’s enduring commitment to the Kashmiri cause.