Pakistani lawmakers have called for renewed international attention to the Kashmir dispute and praised China’s unwavering support for Pakistan, following a high-level meeting in Islamabad. Federal Minister and Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir, Rana Muhammad Qasim Noon, and Chairman of the Standing Committee on Defence, Fateh Ullah Khan, met with Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed to discuss regional security, bilateral relations, and evolving global dynamics, particularly the roles of China, Iran, and Israel in South Asia.
During the meeting, Rana Muhammad Qasim Noon highlighted the enduring partnership between Pakistan and China, emphasizing China’s consistent and principled support regarding the Kashmir issue. He stressed that the Kashmir dispute is an international matter, not just a regional one, and condemned ongoing human rights violations in Indian-administered Kashmir. Noon noted that prominent Kashmiri leaders, including Syed Shabbir Shah and Yasin Malik, remain imprisoned without access to basic rights or medical care. He argued that lasting peace in South Asia depends on a just resolution of the Kashmir issue, in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Noon also addressed recent regional developments, referencing a shift in the balance of power in South Asia since early May, and commended the performance of Pakistan’s Armed Forces, particularly the Air Force. He linked the Kashmir dispute with other regional concerns such as water sharing under the Indus Waters Treaty and alleged Indian state-sponsored terrorism impacting Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He alleged that Indian activities have fueled violence in Pakistan and caused significant economic losses. Noon claimed that recent military and political actions have left India isolated on the world stage.
In a joint statement, Noon and Mushahid Hussain Syed welcomed remarks by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who praised the Pakistan Army’s commitment to the Pakistan–China friendship. Both leaders emphasized that China’s support is crucial for Pakistan’s sovereignty and security, and reaffirmed the Kashmir issue as central to global peace. They committed to safeguarding Chinese interests in Pakistan, enhancing counterterrorism cooperation, and further strengthening the strategic partnership with China.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed reiterated the significance of the Kashmir conflict as a global peace issue. He advocated for a more proactive foreign policy and noted that mediation offers from major powers, including the United States, should not be dismissed outright.
Fateh Ullah Khan also underlined the importance of Kashmir for Pakistan’s security and stability. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s pride in its relationship with China and its commitment to partnerships with states that respect Pakistan’s sovereignty and support the Kashmiri cause for self-determination.
