Ottawa: The Pakistan High Commission in Ottawa commemorated Kashmir Black Day with a photographic exhibition and public event highlighting what it described as the ongoing human rights situation in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. The observance, held annually on October 27, marks the day in 1947 when Indian forces entered the region following its contested accession to India — a date Pakistan and many Kashmiris regard as the beginning of decades of conflict.
The event was attended by members of the Pakistani and Kashmiri diaspora, community activists, and representatives of human rights organizations based in Canada. Attendees viewed a photo display depicting scenes from the Kashmir Valley and heard messages of solidarity from Pakistani leaders. The event’s stated aim was to draw international attention to the humanitarian and political situation in the region.
In his remarks, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Canada, Muhammad Saleem, called on the international community to “play its role in ensuring justice and self-determination for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.” He reiterated Pakistan’s longstanding position that the dispute must be resolved peacefully and in accordance with United Nations resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.
Similar observances were organized by Pakistan’s Consulates General in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, which hosted exhibitions, seminars, and discussions in collaboration with local community groups