Nuaman Ishfaq Mughal,
Islamabad: National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), in collaboration with the Higher Education Commission, is hosting a two-day international conference titled Kashmir conflict: “Changing Dynamics and Prospects for Peace”. The conference is arranged to discuss different dimensions of the protracted issue. The distinguished guests from Indian Occupied Kashmir, academics and diplomats are partaking in this conference with Sardar Masood Khan, President Azad Jammu and Kashmir, being the guest of honour.
The rector NUST, Lt. Gen. (r) Naweed Zaman, in his welcome remarks, said, “ Kashmir holds a special place in our hearts.” He dwelled upon the deep cultural affinities and socio-religious commonalities that bind the Kashmiris and Pakistanis together.
He remarked that it is in the collective consciousness of Pakistan that Kashmir should be free. He continued, “Our national narrative is based on solidarity and good will and earnest desire of peace in the region.”
Kashmir, regarded as the paradise on earth, is now home to around 700,000 Indian troops who have also been reported of using chemical weapons on civilians.
Lt. Gen. (r) Naweed Zaman also highlighted the human rights violations being carried out in Kashmir by the Indian forces. “Sexual warfare is being endorsed and used by the government and military officers,” he said, “and it has also been reported by humanitarian organisations.” Doctors without Borders has reported that Kashmir, among all conflict-ridden regions, has the highest rate of sexual violence.
