NEW YORK, September 26: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a substantial meeting with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres today on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The discussions, characterized as warm and cordial, encompassed a broad spectrum of issues central to Pakistan’s foreign policy and global challenges.
The Prime Minister commenced by reaffirming Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to multilateralism, underscoring the indispensable role of the United Nations in navigating the world’s most pressing issues. He commended the Secretary-General for his leadership in promoting global peace and improving governance structures to better include developing nations.
A significant portion of the dialogue was dedicated to the climate crisis. Secretary-General Guterres expressed sincere appreciation for Pakistan’s management of the recent catastrophic floods. In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized that such climate-induced disasters highlight the acute vulnerability of nations like Pakistan, which contribute minimally to global emissions.
He stressed the urgent necessity for collective global action, advocating powerfully for the provision of additional climate finance as a matter of climate justice to aid the most vulnerable countries in adaptation and recovery efforts.
The Prime Minister then pivoted to critical matters of national and regional security. He brought the long-standing dispute of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) to the forefront, urging a peaceful resolution strictly adhering to the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
Furthermore, he highlighted serious concerns over violations of the Indus Waters Treaty and the persistent threat of externally sponsored terrorism against Pakistan. Acknowledging the UN’s diplomatic efforts, Prime Minister Shehbaz also praised the Secretary-General’s role in attempting to de-escalate tensions between Pakistan and India.
Extending the discussion to international conflicts, the Prime Minister voiced profound concern over the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for an immediate ceasefire, the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid, and a credible political process aimed at the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
Concluding the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to its responsibilities as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, pledging to continue serving as a constructive voice for regional and international peace. In turn, Secretary-General Guterres lauded Pakistan’s influential and principled contributions to the United Nations, particularly within the Security Council.
This exchange underscored a continued partnership between Pakistan and the UN, following the Prime Minister’s broader address at the General Assembly which covered a wide array of issues from Kashmir and Palestine to terrorism and multilateralism.