‘We are standing by them’

Prime Minister Imran Khan and Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi returned to Islamabad yesterday after wrapping up their trip to the United States to attend the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

A large number of party workers and supporters gathered at the capital's airport to welcome the premier.

Banners and posters, some praising Imran Khan and others highlighting the plight of Kashmiris who remain under an India-imposed lockdown, were put up at the Islamabad airport and on the main thoroughfares in the city.

Loud cheers could be heard as the prime minister made his way to the main hall to speak to the people.

"First of all, I thank my nation. The way you prayed for me, for us, to be able to present Kashmir's case before the UN," began the prime minister.

"I especially thank Bushra bibi because she prayed a lot for us."

He asked the people to remember that Pakistan is standing with Kashmir. "Whether the world stands with Kashmiris or not, Pakistan is standing by them.

"And we are standing by them because we want to please Allah."

Speaking of the lockdown which has been in place since August 5 in occupied Kashmir, he said: "India has trapped eight million people under a curfew.

"I want to remind you that a struggle goes through highs and low. There are good times and bad times — ghabrana nahi hai (don't worry). Because Kashmiris are looking towards you, and God willing, they will win, they will get independence.

"All Kashmiris, their women and children, are looking to Pakistan and its people. We will expose this fascist Modi's government, this Muslim hating government, on every platform," he said.