The Consulate General of Pakistan in Manchester brought together parliamentarians, local leaders, civil society, academia and media on 5 February 2026 to mark Kashmir Solidarity Day, with a strong turnout from the Pakistani and Kashmiri communities. Speakers used the occasion to mobilise renewed attention and support for the Kashmiri people and to urge sustained international engagement.
Debbie Abrahams, Afzal Khan and Connor Rand addressed the gathering alongside Lord Wajid Khan and senior local government representatives, emphasising the political and humanitarian dimensions of the dispute. Speakers stressed that Jammu and Kashmir remains an internationally recognised dispute and highlighted pressing human rights and humanitarian concerns in IIOJK.
Delegates and presenters called for a peaceful resolution in line with UN Security Council resolutions and the right of self-determination, urging the international community to maintain focus on both legal frameworks and humanitarian relief. The event underscored the need for dialogue, accountability and measures to alleviate suffering while pursuing a durable settlement.
Organisers said the Manchester gathering reflects Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic, political and moral support for Kashmiri aspirations and aims to keep Kashmir Solidarity on the agenda of UK lawmakers and civic actors. The presence of parliamentarians and community leaders reinforced the message that international attention and principled engagement remain vital to resolving this longstanding issue.
