Conference On CPEC

Organized


by 


Jammu Kashmir International People's Alliance(JKIPA) 


 in Birmigham ,United Kingdom



Resolutions passed in a conference on CPEC, arranged

by

                                    JK International People's Alliance
                   29th May-2016 - Birmingham - United Kingdom.

                                                 Resolutions

Resolutions passed in a conference arranged by Jammu Kashmir International People’s Alliance on 29 May 2016 in Birmingham, England. The Conference was attended by leaders of Kashmiri parties, scholars, Councilors and prominent members of Kashmiri and Pakistani Civil Society.
Title: How China Pakistan Economic Corridor will affect people of former Princely State of Jammu and Kashmir?
This Conference unanimously:
1. Declare that Former Princely State of Jammu Kashmir is one political entity; and the entire State, which includes areas of Gilgit Baltistan, so called Azad Kashmir, Jammu, Valley of Kashmir and Ladakh is disputed; and future of the entire former State is yet to be determined;
2. Acknowledge Pakistan’s right to development, hence do not oppose construction of the CPEC, however, we strongly feel that people of Gilgit Baltistan should also benefit from this mega project and they should be part of the decision making;
3. Request the relevant authorities to formulate policies that will empower people of Gilgit Baltistan, develop their educational, professional, and technical skills; and build infrastructure in such a way that people of Baltistan and Azad Kashmir could also benefit from the CPEC;
4. Urge both India and Pakistan to make serious efforts to resolve the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir State; and that will start a new era of friendship and cooperation which will bring economic prosperity and stability to the region;
5. Emphasis that State Subject Ordinance gives identity to all citizens of former Princely State of Jammu and Kashmir. It is regrettable that Pakistan has over the years violated this law in Gilgit Baltistan which has created serious social, economic and political problems because of migration of Pakistanis in to the region. We urge the government of Pakistan to respect State Subject laws and ensure that all non - local people settled here are repatriated;
6. Concerned about the denial of civil, political, economic and social rights to the people of Gilgit Baltistan and Pakistan Administered Kashmir; and emphasis that in order to promote development, urgent attention must be given to the promotion and protection of fundamental human rights as enshrined in the UN Charter;
7. Demand that treason charges against political prisoners must be dropped and all such prisoners, including Baba Jan must be released without any delay.
8. Call upon both China and Pakistan that the CPEC is being built through a disputed territory, therefore, a provision should be incorporated in the agreement that future government of the former Princely State of Jammu and Kashmir should have a right to negotiate new terms with the respective governments of China and Pakistan.


Economic and Strategic Designs


and Social Justice – A Global Talk


Regarding the CPEC


Respected Ladies and Gentlemen,The purpose of the proactive economy initiative by China with Pakistan, called CPEC, is to embed economic growth into hard strategical goals; as I explained itin my penultimate speech at the Conference in Brussels last October.This geo–economy of China would change the geo-strategy from Asia to Europeas well as in the new ‘Silk Roads’ to be built. It is backed by the new big bank AIIB (Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank), which was established for this specific purpose – to finance all the projects of the CPEC, through Kasghgar, Gilgit – Baltistan, Kashmir, Fata, Khyber Pakthunkwa, Balochistan, Sindh and Punjab.The consequent reduction of dependence on the International Monetary Fund, caused objections concerning the bank and China`s plans, raised in both the USA and Japan. Unfortunately, Germany, the UK and other European governments were founding members of AIIB.Their objective, to remove any control and influences from international authorities and foreign economic designs, can now be seen in its development - China is becoming the main political influence in the region through the conditions of the CPEC contract, supported by Pakistan. China is siding with thePakistan regime in Islamabad to secure influence over the resources along the CPEC with the aid of the Special Security Division (SSD), a body responsible for the security of the Chinese in the area of CPEC. Regardless of the interests of the Balochs, Pashtuns, Sindhis and Kashmiris, Islamabad has signed the contract under the condition that only Chinese Industrialists would be allowed toset up their industries in the proposed economic zones to be created along the corridor. There are nine Special Economic Zones planned. One each in Punjab, Khyber Pakthunkwa, Balochistan and Islamabad, two in Sindh and one each in Fata, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit – Baltistan, however, the work on them has not yet begun. These planned enclaves are Special Economic Zones in which energy and water supplies will have to be supplied from Pakistani resources. They will be open only to Chinese investors, prohibited to foreign or local provincial investors and, the state Balochistan which still exists de jure, commensurate with International Law. Balochstan’s independence was acknowledged by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan. Prince Suleman Dawood Ahmadzai presented the proof of this in a paper to the House of Lords one month ago. 
If access to investment in these Special zones was allowed to all other investors around the world, that would be solid confirmation of the promises made by Islamabad, to create employment for the inhabitants of Balochistan, Pashtun regions, Sindh and Kashmir and Gilgit – Baltistan; nevertheless, Islamabad has signed agreements for these special zones, to allow only Chinese investors access. Another important disadvantage of this agreement concerns taxes. Examples in Sri Lanka have proved that enclaves of China include what amounts to colonisation through the migration of Chinese citizens with Chinese investmentsexempt from paying taxes. The role of Pakistan is illegal in this treaty. The treaty has feet of clay because the consistency of the contract cannot be guaranteed. I examined its legal foundations in my last evocation speech at the Bangkok Conference in: ‘Legal aspects of the CPEC’. In law, Pakistan should enter into treaties only for which it has the requisite domestic, political consensus and, after it has created the necessary political and legal space for their execution. Once Pakistan signs a treaty, it is bound to make it part of domestic law and to expeditiously implement its obligations. In accordance with UN convention, all provinces, including Gilgit–Baltistan andthe representatives of a free Balochistan (which by right is the Khan of Kalat and a free elected government of Balochs), must be asked in advance to find a consensus for signing the right contract, with the right conditions; a contract which will deliver real benefit and development to all and one that is not simply a ‘paper tiger’.At present the politics of federalism and the absence of any domestic legal recording and preparedness, have created the strong possibility of CPEC projects being subjected to unscheduled delays and possible cancellations; thus, exposing Pakistan to liability for violating its international commitments. A senior Chinese official has said to the Pakistani media that ‘China cannot afford to invest billions of dollars on roads that pass through a disputed territory.’ And yet Kashmir is still a disputed territory. Therefore, Pakistan is not entitled to conclude the CPEC contract. Furthermore, the role of Pakistan is reduced in this treaty, to strengthen security for the planned projects. The Pakistan government has been forcibly evacuating locals and razing entire villages to the ground in order to make way for the CPEC. The human rights violations, abductions, torture and killings have increased. Everyday news 
concerning the enforced disappearances of local people in Balochistan floods in and now the same atrocities are being reported in the Pashtun regions.The Minister for Planning, Development and Reforms, Ahsan Iqbal, has said that those protesting against the CPEC will be charged under anti–terrorism laws. Rather than the CPEC contributing to stabilizing the whole region, it is instead inflaming the factions and creating more unrest. If we have a look at Gwadar, local sellers at markets are excluded from providing for the Chinese, food is bought in Iran and Karachi. Balochs are not allowed to enter the Gwadar port area which has been leased by China for 40 years. The Strait of Hormuz is the channel for about one third of the world`s oil trade, making Gwadar’s role in Balochistan vital for ensuring China’s energy security; the proposed naval base for China in the area would act to counter US influence in the whole region. It is also a threat to free passage from and to the UAE and Oman. So how can this problem become solved? So how do we propose economic and efficient designs and strategies which will bring social justice to Balochs, Pashtuns, Kashmiris and Sindhis?First there must be founded a ‘Government in Exile’ by the Baloch leaders and the Khan of Kalat; perhaps in India. Second, this government must be acknowledged by India and the US and perhaps, also by Russia, with provision for the countries of Europe following. Media around the world will be informed about the legality of an independent Balochistan. The Security Council of UN will face only China and Pakistan’s vetoes. If China and Pakistan are controlling the coasts of Balochistan and Sindh through their navy, the’ Government in Exile’ of the Balochs can then legally call for the help of the US and Indian Governments, perhaps Russia too, to intervene and secure Gwadar port. When US influence is restored, Balochistan along with the USA can dictate the conditions of a new CPEC treaty; a treaty which would really lead to benefits forthe local people. The Pakistan government can be obliged to stop atrocities, to let in UN controls, journalists and human rights organizations. Balochistan`s resources, which are now being plundered by China, will be open to international investors through negotiations with the ‘Government in Exile’ for the benefit of Baloch people. Both US and Russia will be invited to invest in Balochistan, to fight terrorism with the co-operation of the Balochs; a country 
which stands for secular thinking, holds western values and wants to close madrassas and to end the dangerous religious ideology of extremism, Wahhabism, upheld by Islamabad.Investment is needed to ease the poverty of the Baloch population and would provide taxes to pay for an unconditional basic income for everybody. The control of taxes must be guaranteed to prevent them being siphoned off to Punjabis or others and China would be obliged to pay taxes for the infrastructurethey need for their projects. To create a Baloch state under the rule of law is in the interest of India and its neighbours, including Afghanistan and the Arabian states along the Strait of Hormuz. It is especially in the interest of the US and possibly Russia too, to balance out the increasing imperialist and colonial expansion plans of China. It could have also a positive effect on new Silk Routes to Europe through Russia, which could be built in future. To provide a way for fair and just negotiations on an even level would be a contribution to peace in the region. It is in this sense that I appeal to the states, to think about justice, autonomy and peace.Thank you for your esteemed attention, Ladies and Gentlemen!



Claudia Heidelberg ( Wädlich ) Germany
NGO Balochistanproject
Professional Think-tank, writer of four published books 
and studied lawyer in diplomacy and criminology
Correspondent and Columnist on The Pashtun Times 






Jammu Kashmir International People’s Alliance
( JKIPA ) at Torino Italy On 7th August 2016

"China Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) and its political and environmental Implications on the Region."

This Conference unanimously:

1. Declare that State of Jammu Kashmir is one political entity; and the entire State, which includes areas of Gilgit Baltistan, so called Azad Kashmir, Jammu, Valley of Kashmir and Ladakh is disputed.

2. Assert that terrorism, religious intolerance and extremism are major threats to peace and fundamental human rights of people; therefore, they must be opposed in all forms and shapes by all governments, political and civil society organizations.

3. Condemn growing human rights violations in Kashmir; and strongly urge the authorities to respect human life, and liberty of the people, as it is their prime responsibility to ensure peace and stability, and that there is no threat to human life.

4. Express serious concern on the construction of the CPEC and exploitation of our national resources in Gilgit Baltistan by Pakistan and China; and strongly criticize deliberate endeavours of both countries to deprive benefits of the CPEC to the local inhabitants of Gilgit Baltistan and Pakistan Administered Kashmir.

5. Remind both governments that the CPEC will result in added pollution and serious environmental issues which will change the ecosystem of the region with disastrous consequences for human and wild life.

6. Urge both China and Pakistan to take appropriate measures to deal with issues related to environment; and formulate policies that will empower people of Gilgit Baltistan, develop their educational, professional, and technical skills that people of Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Kashmir could also benefit from the CPEC.

7. Demand that since the CPEC is being built through a disputed territory, therefore, a provision should be incorporated in the agreement that future government of the former Princely State of Jammu and Kashmir should have a right to negotiate new terms with the respective governments of China and Pakistan.

8. Recommend that Kashmir dispute should be resolved through a process of dialogue, and by adopting all peaceful means and in accordance with aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir State.

9. Disturbed about the denial of civil, political and social rights to the people of forcibly divided State of Jammu and Kashmir; and demand that all such laws, ordinances, Pronouncements and Acts should be abolished which curb fundamental rights of the citizens.

10. Deplore sedition charges levelled against political leaders of Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Kashmir; and demand that these charges must be dropped and all political prisoners must be released, including Baba Jan and his colleagues who were tried under Anti Terrorist Acts and facing 40 years life imprisonment.

11. Criticise actions of Azad Kashmiri authorities for banning books on Kashmir, and booklets and literature related to history of State of Jammu and Kashmir; and demand that the right of expression must be respected.

12. Emphasis that State Subject Ordinance gives identity to all citizens of former Princely State of Jammu and Kashmir. It is regrettable that Pakistan has over the years violated this law in Gilgit Baltistan and in so called Azad Kashmir, which has created serious social, economic and political problems because of migration of Pakistanis in to the region. We urge the government of Pakistan to respect State Subject laws and ensure that all non - local people settled here are repatriated.

13. Point out that during our most difficult time when we faced a natural disaster in the form of devastating earthquake in which tens of thousands of people perished and millions were uprooted, China was not among the countries which extended helping hand. However, it is sad to note that China with help of Pakistan is very keen in plundering our resources.

JKIPA-

Military Operations and Enforced Disappearances------Seeking UN Intervention for the safe recovery of Missing Persons in Pakistan 

Respected Ladies and Gentlemen,The UN offers different mechanisms against the Enforced Disappearance of people, but not all of them lead to efficient results. For example, because of the need of ratification on the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (CPED) - a legally binding Convention for States - it is ineffectual in the case of the state Pakistan. Although, Pakistan was recommended to ratify it, there are well-known reasons why this has not yethappened - the Convention obliged states to fight against Enforced Disappearances. Compliance with the Convention is monitored by the Committee against Disappearance and the Committee and a Working Group operate closely together. This Body could be effective, but at present, there is no possibility of implementing it.The Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances, founded in 1980, comprises five independent experts belonging to five world religions, is searching for those ‘disappeared’ and at the same time, fighting against the crime. They are helping relatives to find out where their loved ones are and will continue until these people’s destinies are discovered. The Pak Army has killed tens of thousands of Baloch civilians during military offensives and abducted more than 30,000 Baloch Freedom-seeking activists, among whom are 400 Baloch women and children. Tens of thousands of Baloch families have been forced to migrate from Balochistan. The numbers involved seem unbelievable but lists of all these disappeared people can be handed over to the UN Working Group. The Security Council of the UN in New York only can act through the member governments of the USA and India, risking the veto of China or Russia. My NGO Balochistan project, just registered in the USA, will contact the government of President Trump as well as representatives of Congress to whom we have access. They can determine whatever Peacekeeping operations can and should be imposed, such as giving access to journalists and Human Rights Organisations in the closed area of Balochistan.The United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention and the responsibility to protect people is a preventative Body for raising awareness. The special Advisor 
on the Prevention of Genocide is mandated to liaise with the UN system on activities for the prevention of genocide.  In line with their mandate to enhance capacity, the Special Advisors support national, regional and global networks of national focal points on genocide and atrocity prevention. The proof of the ISI and Pak Army’s systematic genocide of the Baloch people, their plan to change the demography of Balochistan by settling Punjabis and Chinese thereby advantaging the CPEC project, enables this tool to be utilised for the sake of the Balochs.There is also the CTITF. The United Nations Action to Counter Terrorism. The General Assembly endorsed Counter–Terrorism Implementation. The Task Force, consisting of 38 entities of the UN and affiliated organizations, is also to be addressed in the War on Terror, the important Subcommittee against terrorismof the Congress of the United States. Ted Poe is the President and already active on the bill to declare Pakistan a terror state. In this case, we can address the Trump Government and take action against the Pak Army and ISI. ISI has already been declared a terror organization by the Congress of United States of America and the CTITF should not accept any propaganda attempts from Islamabad, which declares everyone opposing CPEC a terrorist. Even being against the suppression of opposition is enough to be declared a terrorist.To me it often seems that governments are too naïve in believing the disinformation by such a regime, which uses this rhetoric as a successful tactic to prevent investigation and to silence protest. The International Court of Justice is an instrument of dual Jurisdiction. It judges according international law and advises states to impose its decisions.There could be opportunities to accuse the Pak Army and ISI of crimes against the Balochs with a much-needed database of all the enforced disappeared Balochs addressing the different Bodies of UN. In June 2010, Pakistan ratified the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights as well as the Convention against Torture. The various UN bodies listed can be consulted on these Baloch cases. The jurisprudence, once again strengthened with the end of the military rule in Pakistan, has not yet been able to ensure a better judicial protection of human rights in Pakistan; even when the Supreme Court deals specifically with particularly ‘public’ cases of human rights violations. As an example - the 
disappearance of Persons in the context of the so-called insurrection in Balochistan and tribal areas. An insurrection that has increased since last year because of the ‘protection’ measures of planned CPEC projects at the cost of the Baloch population and human rights. Instead of corruption and unimplemented laws, the UN Bodies addressed can begin to work on the cases presented. I appeal to them to take action. I also appeal to the Balochs to keep collecting evidence with which to present to the Court of Justice and the United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention plus the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances. I appeal to all these bodies to raise awareness of the brutal injustice happening in Balochistan, Sindh, Pashtun and Kashmir regions and to counter the human rights violations being forced on them. And to counter terrorism spread by the Pak Army and ISI through propaganda and disinformation to the US and the World Community. In the hope that these atrocities will attract the attention of Big Media via these UN Bodies, I thank you for your esteemed attention to my speech, Respected Ladies and Gentlemen! 



Claudia Heidelberg ( Wädlich ) Germany
NGO Balochistanproject
Professional Think-tank, writer of four published books 
and studied lawyer in diplomacy and criminology
Correspondent and Columnist on The Pashtun Times 


Freedom                                             Democracy                                                         Equality

     

       United Kashmir People,s National Party


EIAS Briefing Seminar 
China Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC):
Challenges and Opportunites

Date: 03/12/2015

The European Institute of Asian Studies has organized a briefing seminar on "China Pakistan Economic Corridor : Challenges and Opportunities" on 02 /12/2015 at Brussels. The Four main areas of cooperation under the CPEC are transports, infrastructure, energy and industrial cooperation. EIAS has organized this conference for seeking to raise awareness and intrest regarding the biggest overseas investment of 46 Billion USD Project initiated by the government of china.The introductory remarks has given by the Moderator Mr David Fouquet ,Senior associate of the European Institute of Asian Studies

Dr Safdar A. Sohail ,member of discussion panel ,Minister -Counsellor ,Embassy of Pakistan in Brussels has given a short presentation of the CPEC.The CPEC projects is emphasizing more on energy rather then a political implications or security challenges. The anxiety and sustainability of of the project has been disscused.
Mr. Tomas Niklasson -Deputy Head of Division European External Action Service(EEAS) has delivered a wonderfull speech on the occasion of the Seminar where he put light on all issues of local people regarding CPEC. He further elobrated that the route btween china Pakistan crosses Kashmir the disputed area between india ,Pakistan and China. The EU's Developmental Assistance to Pakistan Focus on rural Development ,education, health, good governance, Human rights and rule of law. Pakistan is beneficiary of the GSP+ Scheme and is supported by the EU in area of Security, counter terrorism and non-poliferation under the EU Pakistan Five year Engagement Plan. Democracy is going foward but Mr Tomas has criticized Pakistan government on corruption.

Ms Laurence Vandewalle-Asia Analyst for the policy Department, European Parliament ,member of the discussion panel ,She was last key speaker in this seminar where she has shed light on concerns and reservation of the people of Balochistan and Kashmir regarding CPEC. She has highlighted the human rights violations in Balochistan including brutal repression and torture bodies. She has also highlighted the miserable situation of Muslims in China. The route of corridor crossing pakistani controlled Kashmir is serious point of contention for india. India is concerned about the miltary potential of the Gwadar harbour and Chinese arm sales to pakistan. Despite Pakistan and saudi Arabia's Past cooperation, the CPEC mey lead to a Gradual Shift in Pakistan's regional alliances, away from Saudi Arabia and towards China and Iran. She has discussed the new trade route in Pakistan ,Silk Roads: China plans to Spend Billions on infrastructure in Pakistan that would help open new trade route.

In Q&A Session of the seminar where the role of china & Pakistan has been criticized by the European diplomatic circles and the representatives of the United Kashmir people's National Party.

The secretary Foreign Affairs UKPNP,Jamil Maqsood has comment and raised the question of construction of mega dams in the disputed regions of kashmir occupied by Pakistan and so called charges against Nadar Hassan and Baba Jan in Gilgit. 

The General Secretary UKPNP Belgium Sajid Hussain has raised the questions why Pakistan is ignoring Kashmiris from last 68 years.The people of Kashmir wants ownership of their resources including on all mega projects and specially CPEC.Under which law Pakistan has brought Chinese Army in the name of all these Mega project in this disputed region.The member of pannel from Islamic Republic of Pakistan has completely failed to respond the questions.

Sajid Hussain
General Secretary,
United Kashmir People's National Party Belgium






​​










Legal aspects of CPEC

             

By 


Claudia Heidelberg ( Wädlich )


Both as a member of a think-tank and having studied law, I am currently investigating the legality of the CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) treaty with a special regard to International law, National Pakistani law and its Constitution, and UN conventions; focussing particularly on some fundamental legal questions. With this in mind, I would like to make the following preliminary judgement before proceeding to details:The treaty has feet of clay and the consistency of the contract cannot be guaranteed.First, let`s examine the officially announced intentions that China has declared. The corridor will incorporate a 2,000 Kilometre transport link between Kashgar in northwest China and Gwadarport in Balochistan. Gwadarport is on the Arabian Sea near the border with Iran, historically a western Baloch area, occupied by Pakistan in the past and the route would be via roads, railways and pipelines. China and Pakistan have developed strong bilateral trade, economic ties and co-operation over several years during which China has gradually emerged as Pakistan`s major trading partner, both in terms of imports and exports. Bilateral trade and commercial links between the two countries were established in January 1963 when both signed the first bilateral, long term trade agreement. Both countries signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on November 24th 2006 and it was implemented from July 1st 2007; subsequently, both countries signed an FTA on Trade in Services on February 21st 2009 which became active from October 10th that year. CPEC is an ‘under-construction’ mega-project which, purpursely, “shall” achieve its political and economic objectives through trade and development and, “shall” also strengthen the economic and trade cooperation between the twocountries. It is also expected that the corridor “shall” be helpful in creating stability in South Asia and after completion, it “shall” function as the primary gateway for trade between China, Africa and the Middle East. The first phase comprises the development of Gwadar Port and the construction of an international airport, to be completed in 2017. The Karakorum Highway connecting both countries is to be widened, whilst the rail network between Peshawar in the North and Karachi in southern Sindh is to be upgraded; the two countries also have a plan for ‘pf fibre-optic’ communication links. The Strait of Hormuz is the channel for about one third of the world’s oil trade, making Gwadar`s role in Balochistan vital for ensuring China`s energy security; 
the proposed naval base for China in the area would act to counter US influence in the whole region. Three corridors are planned, one of which is the western route through Gilgit–Baltistan, that demonstrates how, in the fullest extent, this treaty is illegal from the outset. In compliance with legal standards, the contracting partners, Pakistan and China,must be legally recognised to represent Balochistan, the Pashtun areas, Gilgit–Baltistan (Kashmir) and Sindh in any treaty which directly concerns or concedesassess to these provinces or states. The annexation of Balochistan in 1948 by the Pakistani state was an illegal act. Balochistan was recognised as a self-governing state in a subsidiary alliance with British India, and it is a fact that the independent state of Balochistan still exists commensurate with International law. Pakistan was recognised by other nations as a separate state from India in 1947, but not the addition of, or annexing of, Balochistan. The Khan of Kalat tried to restore his state in a European Court declaring that Balochistan was ‘occupied’ by Pakistan.Gilgit - Baltistan is not part of the Pakistani Constitution nor do Kashmiris have a seat in the Assembly of Pakistan. It remains a disputed territory meaning that Pakistan is not authorised to act on its behalf in negotiations with the Chinese, especially without asking the citizens of Gilgit–Baltistan. In Pakistani law, provinces must be consulted prior to negotiations and agreements must be ratified by the province; Gilgit-Baltistan is not a province of Pakistan, neither is Balochistan, because the annexation was illegal. Therefore, Pakistan is not entitled to conclude the CPEC contract. The Chinese have expressed concerns about the legality of any work undertaken across Gilgit–Baltistan, a territory that is the subject of an international dispute. A senior Chinese official told the Pakistani media that “China cannot afford to invest billions of dollars on roads that pass through a disputed territory.” The several issues on which the Chinese have expressed reservations are:· Gilgit-Baltistan is claimed by India. · The people of Gilgit–Baltistan believe that the CPEC will allow exploitation of its water resources for the sole benefit of Pakistan. · Not a single Kashmiri worker is involved in this project. · The future development of the whole regions must first be proved. (So far,the opposite seems apparent)
If you look at other developmental records of China’s various expansionist projects there is a great deal to worry about.In Nigeria, you will not see any development of the regions through which the pipelines run. In Darfur in Sudan, in line with the official tenor of my government, China participated in the horrifying murder of the many Sudanese who protested about the lack of development and depletion of natural resources. Tibet is the other example of China’s complete disregard of Human Rights; evenin its own country, the extent to which individual rights are dismissed is frightening. Minister for Planning, Development and Reforms, Ahsan Iqbal, has said that those protesting against the CPEC will be charged under anti-terrorism laws. Political parties in Khyber, Pakhtunkhwa are also opposed to the CPEC, raising a big challenge for this multibillion dollars’ project as they submit that only Punjabis would profit by it. Rather than the CPEC contributing to stabilising the whole region, it is instead inflaming the factions and creating more unrest. In law, Pakistan should enter into treaties only for which it has the requisite domestic, political consensus and after it has created the necessary political and legal space for their execution. Once Pakistan signs a treaty, it is bound to make it part of domestic law and to expeditiously implement its obligations. At present the politics of federalism and the absence of domestic legal recordingand preparedness has created a strong possibility of CPEC projects being subjected to unscheduled delays, even possible cancellations, exposing Pakistan to liability for violating its international commitments.In accordance with UN convention, all provinces, including Balochistan and Gilgit–Baltistan, must be asked in advance to find a consensus for signing the right contract, with the right conditions; a contract which will deliver real benefit to all and development which is not only a ‘paper tiger’. Gwadar Port has been leased to China for 40 years. Balochistan nationals are notallowed to enter the port area and Baloch fishermen are prohibited their traditional and national rights to fish in the sea around the port. So, my question is how do China and Pakistan propose to develop Balochistan? I don`t see any effort to implement the proposals in these announcements.
Because Balochistan is an occupied country, according to its citizens, deemed a disputed territory at best in the eyes of the world, Pakistan could not negotiate with China about Gwadar. The Khan of Kalat and possibly a freely elected government of Balochistan must be the recognised contract partners of the western route through Balochistan. The contract is therefore illegal and must be renegotiated by the correct legal parties in the event of any such treaty being desirable. Regarding the strategic threat posed by the CPEC, which I addressed in the last lecture, I do not see any realisation of the project in the coming years, even though the work in Gwadar has already begun.The interrogation of International laws involved in the project should be pursuedbecause there may be legal prospects of nullifying the contract. “There is nothing more ancient than the truth” the philosopher Descartes once stated. The truth of Balochistan is that it exists. Pakistan may consider it an old-fashioned relic of former times, but they should never underestimate the will of the people. Pakistan will not survive as a state, if it continues to set aside democratic processes and use illegal means to suppress the people. In the words of one Baloch, “One can only feel like an outcast, in a land, that is supposedly mine. They come, they exploit and they leave.” 



​​​Freedom                             Democracy                        Equality

'United Kashmir People's National Party(UKPNP)Central Spokesperson,Sardar Nasir Aziz Khan is on Political Tour of North America and Canada where he is going to meet Members of the Parliament , Members of civil society and interacting with Kashmiri Diaspora and also addressing different receptions and Public Meetings. Islamabad Declaration passed in All Parties Conference, title of which was, ‘Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan in the state of limbo and future prospective.’ This important Conference organized by United Kashmir Peoples National Party (UKPNP) in Islamabad, in which renowned leaders of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, Gilgit Baltistan, human rights activists, thinkers, lawyers, journalists and authors with forward looking approach, assembled to discuss situation of peace and human rights in forcibly divided State of Jammu and Kashmir; and formulate appropriate strategies to counter threats to peace and human rights. Honorable leaders and delegates of this Conference unanimously: 1. Pronounce that the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir is a separate political entity; and its unification, stability, prosperity and independence is our ultimate goal. 2. Declare that Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan are legal and constitutional parts of the former State of Jammu and Kashmir. 3. Caution the Government of Pakistan to refrain from unilaterally changing the status of these areas, as that would seriously affect the Jammu and Kashmir dispute; and could prove to be counterproductive. 4. Reiterate that the Jammu and Kashmir is not a territorial dispute between India and Pakistan; therefore, it could not be resolved bilaterally. As the Principal party to the dispute, the people of Jammu and Kashmir must have the final say on the future of our motherland. 5. Enunciate that the right to life is a fundamental human right, and this right is violated on both sides of the Line of Control in the divided State of Jammu and Kashmir. We request people with guns to exercise restraint, as guns do not provide any solutions, and they add to misery and suffering of the people. 6. Assert that people of the State of Jammu and Kashmir have been victims of aggression, extremism and violence since 1947. They are forcibly divided, and continue to suffer on both sides of the Line of Control. This forced division and suffering must come to an end, as people deserve to enjoy their fundamental human rights. 7. Express their strong resolve that human rights must not be selective. Equality, human rights and justice must be for all the citizens. 8. Announce that there is no military solution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, and dialogue is the only way forward; and to support the dialogue and peace process among all three parties to the dispute, politics of gun, fear and intimidation must end. 9. Acknowledge that India and Pakistan have interests in Jammu and Kashmir, but we do not concur with them; as our interests must be paramount, as we are the principal party to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. 10. Emphasis that people of Jammu and Kashmir, and all oppressed nations in Pakistan should unite, and work together to promote peace and tolerance, and help to establish a conducive environment where people can feel safe. 11. Strongly condemn growing ‘Land Grabbing’ in Azad Kashmir and in Gilgit Baltistan, where military, non-state actors and other influential people are illegally and forcefully seizing private and public property, hill tops and tourist resorts like Peer Chanasi Hill Top in District Muzaffarabad. These holiday resorts belonged to the people of this region, where people freely went with their families. After seizing these holiday resorts, military and non-state actors restricted access to the entire area by erecting barbed wire, and no one is allowed to enter. If someone ignores their instructions, orders are to shoot him on sight. 12. Critics policy of systematically plundering our natural resources, and constructing mega dams and diverting natural flow of rivers in this disputed territory. This illegal construction and diverting of rivers result in serious environmental problems for the local people, including access to clean drinking water. 13. Notify government of Pakistan that continued oppression and injustice may compel people to rise against Pakistan; therefore, it is prudent to stop exploiting our natural resources, and give us the ownership of the dams already built within the territory of Jammu and Kashmir State. 14. Demand construction of all mega dams should stop as they are anti – people and anti- environment. Construction of mega dams is against the interests of our people. Before the construction of mega dams, the authorities must take local people into confidence. 15. Recommend the government to take effective measures to control activities of those who promote extremism, violence and intolerance in Azad Kashmir and in Gilgit and Baltistan, and in various parts of Pakistan. Also, they must ensure that religious and ethnic minorities in Pakistan must not become victims of intolerance and hate. 16. Starkly opposed brutality perpetrated on unarmed civilians who were peacefully protesting against high prices, lack of electricity, lack of clean drinking water, and systematic exploitation of our natural resources. 17. Remind the Pakistani authorities that we are also human beings, just like people of Pakistan. We also need clean water, electricity and other necessities. Azad Kashmir produces around 3,000-megawatt electricity, and our consumption is less than 400 megawatts, at least, provide us that. Our people suffer without electricity for long hours, and they still pay hefty bills and taxes. 18. Demand that all Citizens of the State who hold State Subject Certificates should be allowed to freely interact with each other; and for this purpose, some area along the LOC should be reserved where people can meet and socialize with their friends and relatives. 19. Urge the government of Pakistan and India to respect the State Subject Notification of 1927, as that Ordinance grants a special status to people of Jammu and Kashmir. In this context, demand Pakistan to stop violating this law, and stop settling people in Gilgit Baltistan to change the demography of the area. 20. Observe that hundreds of thousands of people who are uprooted due to different military operations and mega projects must be rehabilitated, and resettled according to the constitution of Pakistan and international norms forth with. 21. Worried about continuous practices of enforced disappearances, extra juridical killings and torture by the secret agencies, and law enforcement forces. The government of Azad Kashmir is a silent spectator and is not doing anything to protect people. We demand that witch hunt of political opponents, the cases of enforced disappearances, extra – judicial killings and torture must end now. 22. Exceptionally disturbed about this policy of using religion as a weapon and violence as a tool to advance political and strategic agenda to suppress the democratic and progressive voices. 23. Recognize that we should formulate strategies to educate people about fundamental human rights, and empower them with skills and relevant education that they can protect their rights; and challenge those who promote extremism, religious intolerance, violence and hatred. 24. Advocate this demand of the people that there must be free, totally impartial and transparent elections in Azad Kashmir and in Gilgit Baltistan; and the clause of ‘accession’ must be removed that all people can participate in elections without any fear or intimidation. 25. Highlight the importance of people to people contacts as that helps to build bridges of confidence, and help to resolve disputes. Therefore, it is imperative to open all traditional routes of the forcibly divided State of Jammu and Kashmir so that people can interact with each other and eradicate misunderstandings, differences and hatred. 26. Understand that South Asia has a turbulent history where interests of many other countries also clash with the interests of countries of the region. We must ensure that our forcibly divided Jammu and Kashmir and South Asia should not become a battleground for the ‘new cold war’ or a ‘new Great Game’. We all have to live in South Asia and face challenges of 21st Century; and work together to counter threats of terrorism, violence and xenophobia. 27. Call on governments of India and Pakistan to respect and honor civil and political rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir State; and also request the government of Pakistan to refrain from annexing areas of Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, as that will further exacerbate the situation. Instead, we request the government to grant autonomy to both areas under their control so that the elected members could help the local people with everyday social, political and economic problems.

​​​ United Kashmir People's National Party