Distinguished journalist late Khalid Farooqi remembered with rich tributes

MIRPUR (AJK) , (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point news - 5th May, 2026) A prominent Europe-based Kashmiri advocacy group has paid tributes to late Pakistani journalist and intellectual Khalid Hameed Farooqi, praising his lifelong commitment to human rights and justice.

Speaking at a memorial event in Brussels, Chairman, Kashmir Council Europe, Ali Raza Syed said figures like Farooqi used “knowledge and wisdom” to highlight human rights issues and advocate for oppressed communities.

The event, titled the “Khalid Hameed Farooqi Memorial Festival,” was held in Brussels and brought together journalists, intellectuals, poets and political and social figures from across Europe, including Belgium, France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

Syed described Farooqi as a steadfast advocate for truth and justice whose work consistently focused on the rights of marginalized communities.

He said courageous writers and thinkers played a critical role in raising awareness and inspiring societies in their struggles for freedom.

organized jointly by the Pakistan Press Club Belgium and the Kashmir Council Europe, the annual gathering also featured a tributes to visiting guest Tahira Habib Jalib, who traveled from Pakistan to attend.

She is the daughter of renowned revolutionary poet Habib Jalib.

Reflecting on his personal association with Farooqi, Syed said he had known him for more than two decades, describing him as a close friend and trusted adviser.

He praised Farooqi’s integrity and dedication to highlighting the Kashmir issue and human rights concerns in Europe, saying his contributions would be long remembered.

The event also included a book launch by writer Safdar Zaidi, a poetry session, and the presentation of a lifetime achievement award to journalist and author Mujahid Hussain, received on his behalf by Uneeb Rashid.

The program was hosted by Chaudhry Imran Saqib, with participation from speakers including Aamir Butt, Akram Qaim Khanani, Ameen ul Haque, Shiraz Raaj and Uneeb Rashid.

A documentary on Farooqi’s life and a video message from his sister, Samar Farooqi, were also presented. The event concluded with musical and poetry performances, including renditions of revolutionary poetry associated with Habib Jalib.

APP/ahr/378