Bagh (PoK): On Monday, Zulfiqar Haidar Raja, a nationalist leader, joined the United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) during an event held in Bagh City located in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.
In a press release, Sardar Nasir Aziz Khan, the central spokesperson of UKPNP, expressed great enthusiasm and extended a warm welcome to Zulfiqar Haidar Raja as he joins their party.
Khan stated that they guarantee Zulfiqar Haidar Raja their steadfast cooperation and complete support as they embark on a shared journey towards a brighter future for the people of Kashmir.
Zulfiqar Haidar Raja, an experienced and wise nationalist leader, has acquired a wealth of knowledge and expertise through years of dedicated political leadership.
The spokesperson of UKPNP added that they strongly believe Zulfiqar Haidar Raja’s inclusion in the party will be a valuable asset, enhancing their endeavours to serve the people, protect their rights, and promote their well-being.
Additionally, while congratulating Zulfiqar Haider Raja on his decision to join UKPNP, the spokesperson expressed heartfelt appreciation to Sardar Ishtiaq Hussain, Amjad Gardaizi, Salma Hamid, and all comrades who played a crucial role in facilitating this union. Their efforts and unwavering dedication have established the groundwork for a promising future, and their contributions are sincerely acknowledged and valued.
Sardar Amjad Yousaf, the President of UKPNP Europe Zone, and Muhammad Riaz Khan, the President of UKPNP Canada, were in attendance at the event held in Bagh.
The UKPNP, led by Chairman Shaukat Ali Kashmir who resides in exile in Switzerland, has been dedicated to safeguarding the human rights of the people residing in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. They actively advocate for the local population’s concerns on various international platforms, including the United Nations.
United Kashmir People’s National Party
UKPNP is a political party that promotes the vision of an independent, united, and socialist Kashmir. The vision of UKPNP involves the establishment of the United States of Kashmir, which would encompass the former territories of Burushal, Dardistan, Boloristan, Purig, Ladakh, Kishtwar, Poonch, Duggart, and the Kashmir Valley.
This goal is sought through a national democratic (non-violent) revolution. The party was established on April 10, 1985, and is currently under the leadership of Chairman Sardar Shaukat Ali Kashmiri.
During a conference in Brussels in May 2017, the United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) held discussions and issued a statement unveiling the efforts of the Pakistani administration to assimilate Gilgit Baltistan into the country’s fifth province.
UKPNP urges Pakistan to prioritise peace over terrorism
According to Nasir Aziz, the spokesperson of UKPNP, Pakistan ought to endorse initiatives that foster peace and developmental programs in Kashmir, rather than supporting terrorism.
During a conversation with Shabir Choudhry, a Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) activist, Aziz expressed his belief in the importance of supporting initiatives that promote peace, development, and prosperity in Kashmir rather than terrorism.
Additionally, Aziz remarked that Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan’s recent declaration of standing in solidarity with the PoK region is perceived as a diversionary tactic from pressing issues such as unemployment and the rise of terrorism. These statements are seen as attempts to garner voter support.
Regarding the advantages of hosting G20 meetings in Srinagar, Aziz explained that the focus of the tourism-related G20 meeting was primarily on investment, which holds great potential for the region. For instance, when foreign delegates visit Srinagar, they will patronize local hotels, thereby contributing to the growth and development of the tourism sector in the Union Territory.