MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Chaudhry Anwar ul Haq, reaffirmed strong Kashmir-Pakistan relationship, said in an interview that Kashmir’s bond with Pakistan is based on faith, culture, and history, reaffirmed Kashmiris’ commitment to Pakistan, addressed challenges like unfinished projects and power issues, dismissed no-confidence rumours, and emphasised that UN resolutions provide a roadmap for resolving the Kashmir dispute.
Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Chaudhry Anwar ul Haq, emphasised that Kashmir’s bond with Pakistan is deeply rooted in shared Islamic beliefs, culture, and history.
In an interview with a private TV channel, he stated, “By faith, we are Pakistanis.” He credited Pakistan’s armed forces and its people as the driving force behind his firm stance on Kashmiris’ ongoing struggle for freedom.
He reaffirmed that Kashmiris are prepared to make any sacrifice for Pakistan. “We are willing to give up everything for Pakistan. Sacrificing our lives, let alone water is not beyond us,” he declared.
Discussing the major challenges faced by his government, the Prime Minister pointed to unfinished projects such as the Rathua Haryam Bridge and Jagran Power Project, as well as environmental concerns linked to the Neelum Jhelum Project and ongoing crises in electricity and flour supply issues inherited from previous administrations. However, he guaranteed that his government had taken steps to address those issues.
He also stated that there are no plans to reduce subsidies on electricity or flour, and ongoing power projects are being completed as per the schedule. Efforts are also being carried out to control electricity theft.
Regarding speculation about a no-confidence motion against him, he dismissed it as mere rumour-mongering that has persisted for the past two years.
Commenting on recent protests led by the Awami Action Committee, he stated that the government had handled the situation prudently. He compared this with Indian illegally occupied Kashmir, claiming that if a similar protest had happened there, the Indian army would have resorted to violence.
On the Kashmir dispute, the Prime Minister reiterated that UN resolutions provide a clear framework for its resolution. He maintained that Kashmiris have the right to continue their struggle for freedom.
