harif describes Burhan as ‘martyr’; Pak to observe July 19 as black day

Islamabad, July 15 : Describing slain Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani as a ‘’martryr’’, Pakistan Prime Nawaz Sharif today said Pakistan will continue to provide moral and diplomatic support to Kashmiris in their ‘’just struggle for self-determination.’’ The Prime Minister’s remark came while chairing a meeting of the Federal Cabinet at which it was decided to observe July 19 as ‘’ black day’’ to protest the killings in Kashmir. The Cabinet also decided to convene a joint session of Parliament to discuss the situation in Kashmir, according to Radio Pakistan. Mr Sharif said Kashmiris were fighting for their freedom and the attitude adopted by India would further strengthen their resolve. The Prime Minister also said Pakistan would make all effort to awaken the international community to the situation in Kashmir. Meanwhile, Pakistan has welcomed the UN Secretary General Ban ki Moon’s offer to mediate between India and Pakistan on the issue of Kashmir, even as the US asked it to resolve all its dispute with India through dialogue and target all militant groups, including those that target Pakistan’s neighbours, and close all safe havens. India had yesterday given a stern message to Pakistan asking its hands off Kashmir, describing the happenings there as its internal matter.