Pakistan rejects remarks on Azad Kashmir by overseas activists, British MPs

Pakistan on Monday rejected what it termed unnecessary remarks regarding Azad Jammu and Kashmir by some overseas Pakistanis living in the United Kingdom and criticised statements made by certain British lawmakers on the issue.

In a statement, the Foreign Office spokesperson said Pakistan was concerned over what it described as irresponsible and unrealistic insinuations made by some expatriates regarding the situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The spokesperson advised such individuals to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir and instead contribute positively to the development of the countries in which they reside.

The Foreign Office also took exception to statements and questions raised by some British Members of Parliament, saying they reflected a lack of understanding of the historical background and facts related to the issue.

The spokesperson said those holding colonial-era views should be reminded that Pakistan is a sovereign and democratic state.

"Pakistan believes in the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries and expects the same from others," the statement said.

The Foreign Office said the governments of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir remained committed to ensuring citizens' rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression and participation in the democratic process.

It said constitutional rights were fully recognised and respected, but acts of vandalism, damage to public services, particularly hospitals, and the killing of innocent civilians or law enforcement personnel could not be accepted under any circumstances.

The spokesperson called on the British government to urge individuals supporting banned organisations to refrain from such activities and respect democratic processes, judicial decisions and the rule of law.

The statement added that the constitutions of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir guaranteed democratic values, judicial independence and the rule of law, and these principles must be respected by all.