Luton, (Special Correspondent) __ Haji Chaudhry Muhammad Qurban, Chairman of the Mirpur International Airport Movement UK & Europe, has urged the Prime Minister of Pakistan and relevant authorities to take immediate and practical steps toward establishing Mirpur International Airport. He emphasized that the overseas Kashmiri community has been consistently voicing this long-standing and important demand for decades. However, so far, they have received only promises and assurances, with no tangible progress made on the project, leading to increasing frustration and concern among the diaspora.

In his statement, Haji Qurban reminded that Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif had pledged to establish the airport during various conventions for overseas Pakistanis. Earlier, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, Dr. Muhammad Faisal, also assured community representatives in meetings that the project was a government priority and would soon be implemented. While he appreciates the High Commissioner’s efforts, Haji Qurban noted that despite these statements, no concrete or practical actions have been taken, which has further deepened the sense of disillusionment among overseas Kashmiris.

He highlighted that the Mirpur Division has a significant population of overseas residents in the UK, Europe, the USA, Canada, and the Middle East. This community plays a crucial role in the economic framework of Pakistan, particularly in Azad Kashmir, contributing billions of dollars annually through remittances. Often referred to as “Mini Pakistan,” Mirpur benefits greatly from the strong ties and economic contributions from its diaspora, yet their fundamental and long-standing demand remains unaddressed.

Haji Qurban emphasized that an airport is not just a travel facility; it serves as a catalyst for economic, tourism, and trade development. Establishing an international airport in Mirpur would not only provide essential travel convenience for overseas Kashmiris but also boost the regional economy. It would create new employment opportunities, stimulate business activity, and enhance tourism, ultimately contributing to the overall prosperity of the region.

Expressing further concerns, he questioned why some other cities in Pakistan have been granted airports while a key city like Mirpur — with its strong connections to the overseas community — continues to be overlooked. He asserted that an international airport in Mirpur could effectively meet the region’s logistical needs and alleviate congestion at Islamabad International Airport.

Haji Chaudhry Muhammad Qurban reaffirmed that the Mirpur International Airport Movement in the UK and Europe will continue to advocate for this issue on every available platform. “The time has come to move beyond promises and demand practical action,” he stated. He strongly urged the Government of Pakistan, the leadership of Azad Kashmir, relevant ministries, and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to immediately announce a feasibility study, acquire land, approve funding, and establish a clear timeline for the project.

In conclusion, he expressed that if the Government of Pakistan does not take this matter seriously, the Kashmiri diaspora in the UK and Europe will be disappointed, and they will continue to raise this issue on every forum available.