Brussels, (Unib Rashid) – Chairman of Kashmir Council Europe (KCEU), Ali Raza Syed, has paid rich tribute to veteran late Kashmiri leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani on the occasion of his death anniversary, recalling his long political struggle and commitment to the cause of the Kashmiri people.

In a statement, Ali Raza Syed said that Syed Ali Shah Geelani was an ideological, principled and steadfast leader who devoted his life to advocating the right of self-determination and political rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He said that despite years of imprisonment, house arrest, restrictions and other coercive measures imposed by the Indian authorities, Geelani remained firm in his political position and principles.

He said, Late Geelani had strong political thoughts and had consistently maintained that the people of Jammu and Kashmir should be allowed to determine their political future freely.

Gilani believed that Kashmir is an issue that has long been on the international agenda within the context of relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and that it should be resolved fairly.

Ali Raza Syed said that the passing of Syed Ali Shah Geelani was a major loss for Kashmiri political activism, but his steadfastness, sacrifices and political legacy continue to inspire many Kashmiris. He said Geelani’s struggle and sacrifices would remain part of the historical memory of the Kashmiri people.

The Chairman of Kashmir Council Europe urged the international community, particularly the United Nations and European institutions, to play an effective role in seeking a just and peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, to pay close attention to the human rights situation in the region, and to uphold the political rights of the Kashmiri people.

Ali Raza Syed reaffirmed that KCEU would continue its political and diplomatic efforts in Europe in support of the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, human rights and a just and peaceful resolution of the dispute.