International Seminar in Istanbul Calls for Kashmiri Inclusion in Peace Negotiations

• Urgent calls for a peaceful, sustainable settlement of the Kashmir conflict through the direct, meaningful participation of the Kashmiri people.
• Emphasis on shifting from confrontation toward cooperation, utilizing economic connectivity to build regional stability.
• Advocacy for the protection of human rights defenders and the importance of peaceful political expression.

Conference Overview

• The seminar, "Kashmir: Past, Present and Future," was held at the Neslisah Sultan Cultural Center in Istanbul, hosted by the Divan Education and Research Association, Asya Pacific – Izleme Merkezi, and Fatih Belediyesi.
• Experts highlighted that the Kashmir issue remains an unresolved international conflict and underscored the principle of self-determination as a key component for any future solution.

The Role of the Kashmiri People

• Dr. Mubeen Shah, Chairman of the Kashmir Diaspora Coalition, argued that neither India nor Pakistan can determine the region's future unilaterally.
• Participants emphasized that a sustainable solution requires the inclusion of Kashmiri representatives, as imposed settlements fail to address the core political grievances of the population.
• Potential economic cooperation and cross-border connectivity were proposed as ways to foster trust and capitalize on the region’s economic and human potential while political negotiations proceed.

Human Rights and Political Expression

• Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, Chairman of the World Forum for Peace & Justice, highlighted the plight of detained activists, citing the cases of Khurram Parvez, Yasin Malik, Aasiya Andrabi, Fehmeeda Sofi, and Nahida Nasreen.
• The discussion underscored international concerns regarding the detention of human rights defenders and the necessity of creating a safe space for peaceful political dissent.
• Recommendations were made for increased international engagement, including the establishment of fact-finding mechanisms to address concerns on both sides of the Cease-Fire Line.