Pakistanis and Kashmiris gathered in Paris to commemorate the death anniversary of veteran Kashmiri Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, paying tribute to his decades-long political struggle for the Kashmir cause.
The event was organised by the International Kashmir Peace Forum France (IKPF) and attended by members of the Pakistani and Kashmiri communities as well as human rights activists.
Geelani died on September 1, 2021, at his residence in Hyderpora while under house arrest. He had for decades been one of the most prominent separatist leaders in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and a strong advocate of Kashmiri self-determination.
Speakers at the Paris gathering recalled Geelani’s political career, describing his steadfastness in the face of imprisonment and restrictions as an enduring part of his legacy.
Participants also highlighted his efforts to keep international attention focused on the Kashmir dispute and said his political struggle continued to influence younger generations of Kashmiris.
IKPF President Zahid Hashmi said the commemoration provided an opportunity both to remember Geelani and to reaffirm solidarity with Kashmiris. He called on the international community to remain engaged with the dispute and support efforts towards a peaceful settlement.
Speakers maintained that a lasting resolution should reflect the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and called for continued international attention to the political and human rights situation in the region.
The gathering concluded with participants paying respects to Geelani and offering prayers in his memory.