Pakistan has rejected unwarranted remarks on Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The Foreign Office, in a statement today, said it has noted with concern the irresponsible and ill-informed insinuations made by certain members of the diaspora in the UK regarding Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It said these individuals are advised to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. They would do well to contribute positively to their country of residence.

The Foreign Office said it has also noted the unwarranted remarks and queries raised by certain British Members of Parliament, which reflect a lack of awareness and disregard for the historical background of the issue. For those still living in colonial times, it bears reiterating that Pakistan is a sovereign and democratic republic that firmly believes in non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries and expects the same from others.

The Foreign Office further said the Governments of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir fully recognise and respect the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression and democratic participation. However, vandalism, the destruction of public services, including hospitals, and the murder of innocent civilians and law enforcement officials cannot be permitted under any circumstances.

It urged the British Government to educate and caution those supporting proscribed organisations to refrain from such actions and to respect the democratic process, judicial decisions, and the rule of law as enshrined in the Constitutions of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan.