Connecting Azad Kashmir to the World, Pakistan’s High Commissioner Supports Mirpur Airport

London (Report by Sheraz Khan)
Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, Dr. Muhammad Faisal, has stated that the demand for the construction of an international airport in Mirpur, Azad Kashmir, is valid and appropriate. The Government of Pakistan will thoroughly examine this demand to identify a suitable and available location within the Mirpur Division for the airport. Following a survey, an NOC (No Objection Certificate) can be issued, taking expert opinions into account, and resources will be determined for its provision. He also invited suggestions from Kashmiris residing in the UK regarding this matter.

Dr. Muhammad Faisal expressed these views during a meeting at the High Commission with a delegation from the Mirpur International Airport Movement. The delegation was led by Lord Qurban Hussain, a member of the House of Lords. Lord Qurban Hussain emphasized the urgent need for an airport in Azad Kashmir, stating that the demand from the Mirpur Division’s residents, both in the UK and other countries, is gaining momentum. For this reason, the International Airport Movement has appointed him as their focal person to coordinate between the Government of Pakistan and overseas Kashmiris and to lead the campaign for the airport’s construction effectively.

During the meeting, the Chairman of the Mirpur Airport Movement, Haji Muhammad Qurban, along with Munir Khanpuri and Munir Atif, handed over a petition signed by nearly 11,000 individuals to the High Commissioner in support of the airport’s construction. Letters addressed to the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir were also submitted through the High Commissioner. The petition and letters highlight the essential need for the airport, pointing out that past governments had allocated land near Jatlan for this purpose. It was also noted that the people of Mirpur made significant sacrifices during the construction of the Mangla Dam, even submerging their ancestors’ graves to illuminate Pakistan, yet they have not received justice and continue to face deprivation.

On this occasion, Liaqat Ali Khan and Shiraz Khan thanked the High Commissioner and urged the acceptance of the demands of the people of Azad Kashmir to maintain their trust in Pakistan. Former President of the All Parties Kashmir Liaison Committee, Chaudhry Azim, Amjad Amin Bobi, Chaudhry Shabab, Muhammad Ansar Gulzari, Muhammad Rafiq, Muhammad Ali, and others also attended the meeting. They expressed gratitude to the High Commissioner and reiterated their confidence in the leadership of Lord Qurban Hussain.