To pay tributes to Late Syed Ali Geelani, the paramount leader of people of Jammu & Kashmir, the Embassy of Pakistan Washington DC organized a Webinar Friday.
The panelists included renowned speakers from the United States, United Kingdom, Gulf and Azad Jammu & Kashmir. It included British author and historian Ms. Victoria Schofield, US analyst Col. Wesley Martin, Professor Georgetown University Dr. Imtiaz Khan, Associate Professor Qatar University Dr. Farhan Chak, Kashmiri leader Muzzamil Ayub Thakur, Kashmiri activist Ms. Shaista Safi and Chairman Kashmir Solidarity Council Javed Rathore.
Pak Ambassador to the United States Masood Khan paid glowing tributes to the life long struggle of Hurriyat leader Late Syed Ali Geelani.
“Syed Ali Geelani was a staunch supporter of Pakistan and the ideology of Pakistan. He was a resolute ideologue who never made any compromise”, said the Ambassador.
“As we mark his 1st death anniversary today, we recall his outstanding contribution to the struggle for the protection and promotion of human rights of Kashmiris and their right to self-determination”, the Ambassador said.
Pakistan’s top envoy observed that since passing away of Late Syed Ali Geelani, the risks for peace in the region have increased.
Speaking on the occasion, British author Ms. Victoria Schofield said that Syed Ali Geelani was a man of conviction and would be remembered for his incessant struggle and sacrifice.
Dr. Imtiaz Khan said that the late leader stood for respect for humanity and struggle for freedom. He believed in honesty and was a man of principles. He suggested that a university or a study center in Pakistan be named after late Syed Ali Geelani.
Dr. Farhan Chak highlighted that fake segments of population were being fabricated and foisted on Jammu & Kashmir. India through its illegal and unilateral actions has made a mockery of free will in J&K. He said that rapid militarization in J&K had consequences for peace and security of the region.
Ms. Shaista Safi said that Syed Ali Geelani has left a legacy behind him. It is our responsibility, she said, to take carry forward his legacy and fulfil his agenda.
Kashmiri leader Muzzamil Ayub Thakur highlighted that Syed Ali Geelani wanted his own legacy to be passed on the young generation.
Renowned US analyst on Kashmir Col. Wesley Martin said that the struggle of Syed Ali Geelani was no different from other world leaders who stood for their people. Syed Ali Geelani dedicated his life for securing justice for the people of Jammu & Kashmir. He underscored that the United Nations, the United States and international community should play its role for the rights of people of Jammu & Kashmir.
Mr. Javed Rathore highlighted various dimensions of the issue of J&K including the humanitarian aspect and the implications of the long-standing issue for the regional peace and security.