Karachi: A high-ranking parliamentary delegation from Pakistan, headed by the Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party and former Foreign Minister, Mr. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, provided a briefing to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states at the United Nations. The briefing addressed recent developments in South Asia following India’s military actions and accusations against Pakistan concerning the Pahalgam attack.
Mr. Bhutto Zardari firmly dismissed India’s attempt to associate Pakistan with the Pahalgam incident without substantial evidence or investigation. He argued that India’s immediate blame served as justification for illegal military actions, including cross-border assaults impacting civilians and infrastructure.
Expressing strong concerns, Mr. Bhutto Zardari condemned India’s unilateral halt of the Indus Waters Treaty, viewing it as an act of weaponizing water and violating international agreements. He emphasized that such aggression from India undermines regional safety and has significant consequences for South Asian peace and security.
Mr. Bhutto Zardari appreciated the OIC countries for their efforts in de-escalation and mediation. He stressed that dialogue and diplomacy are crucial for peace, advocating for the restoration of the Indus Waters Treaty and comprehensive dialogue with India, with a focus on resolving the Jammu and Kashmir issue.
The former Foreign Minister acknowledged the OIC’s role as an ethical guide during these challenging times and thanked its members for supporting Jammu and Kashmir. He urged continued support for the Kashmiri people’s rights, particularly their right to self-determination as per UN Security Council resolutions.
OIC Permanent Representatives expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s briefing and affirmed their support for Pakistan and Jammu and Kashmir. They highlighted concerns over the deteriorating security situation in South Asia and emphasized the importance of international law and treaty obligations.
The OIC countries endorsed Pakistan’s commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy, including the Jammu and Kashmir issue, in line with UN Security Council resolutions.