Pakistan to observe 'Black Day' in solidarity with J&K

Islamabad: The Pakistan government on Friday decided to observe a nationwide black day on July 19 to mark solidarity with Kashmiris in the wake of clashes in Jammu and Kashmir. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said Pakistan will continue to extend moral, political and diplomatic support to Kashmiris in their just struggle for right to self-determination, Radio Pakistan reported. Addressing a cabinet meeting in Lahore, Sharif termed the movement of Kashmiris as a "movement of freedom". "Indian brutalities will give impetus to the freedom struggle," Sharif said. It was also decided that the government would convene the joint session of parliament to discuss the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. Sharif's statement comes after recent violence that has gripped Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of the killing of top Hizbul Mujahideen militant Burhan Wani on July 8. More than 35 people have died in clashes between the security forces and unruly mobs since then.