“We Speak Our Mind”: Malaysian Prime Minister Stands By Kashmir Comment

A defiant Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Tuesday stood by his remarks on Kashmir, stating that he believes in “speaking his mind”. The assertion came days after the Ministry of External Affairs expressed regret over the Southeast Asian country claiming in the United Nations General Assembly last month that India had “invaded and occupied” Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters during a press conference in the Malaysian parliament, Mr Mohamad said: “We felt that the people of Kashmir had benefited from the resolution of the United Nations, and all we are saying is that we should all abide, not just India and Pakistan, but even the United States of America and other countries. We speak out our mind, we don’t retract and change.”

In his address to the 74th United Nations General Assembly, Mr Mohamad had said, “Now, despite the UN resolution on Jammu and Kashmir, it has been invaded and occupied. There may be reasons for this action, but it is still wrong. The problem must be resolved through peaceful means.”

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar reacted earlier this month by saying that Mr Mohamad’s remarks were regrettable – especially as India and Malaysia have traditionally enjoyed good ties. “We deeply regret these comments as they are not based on facts,” he added.