The Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) fully supports the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their legitimate struggle seeking implementation of UN resolutions for a fair and free plebiscite in the state, Ambassador Ezzat Kamel Mufti, Special Representative of the OIC, said here Monday night. Participating in the Kashmir Day observed at the residence of Pakistani Consul General Zaighamuddin Azam here, Ambassador Mufti said the OIC favors Kashmiris should be allowed to opt for the country they want. Mufti said he expects the international community to take steps to give the people of Kashmir their right of self-determination. Tariq Al-Maeena, a well-known Saudi journalist, said recent demonstrations in Kashmir have been supported by the Indian media for the first time. Hindustan Times wrote that 87 percent percent of the Kashmiri people want their basic right of self-determination. The Times of India also echoed their call for self-determination, he said. Pakistani Consul General Azam said the outstanding plebiscite issue should be resolved through peaceful negotiations between India and Pakistan. Mian Khalid, Chairman of the Kashmir Committee, the organizers of the meeting, said 80,000 people have given their lives to achieve the right of self-determination and “their efforts would not go waste.” – SG __
