In a separate development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the UNGA session in New York. He urged Guterres to advocate for the implementation of Security Council resolutions regarding Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting Pakistan’s concerns over actions taken by the Indian government in the region. Sharif emphasized the importance of resolving the Kashmir issue for lasting peace and stability in South Asia.
Sharif also condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, referring to them as a “genocidal campaign,” and called for an immediate ceasefire. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to supporting the establishment of a viable and sovereign Palestinian state. Furthermore, he addressed the rise of Islamophobia and discrimination against Muslims globally, reaffirming Pakistan’s role in promoting international peace as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the years 2025-26.
During his visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz attended a ceremony marking Bangladesh’s 50th anniversary of UN membership, where he engaged in positive discussions with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Dr. Muhammad Yunus. The two leaders agreed to expand cooperation in various sectors, signaling a desire to strengthen bilateral ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
In his interactions with Shehbaz, Guterres acknowledged Pakistan’s active engagement in international peacekeeping efforts and its contributions to global security. He expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s role in the UN and its commitment to addressing pressing global issues.
As the 79th session of the UN General Assembly unfolds, both Iran and Pakistan are seeking to address significant regional and international challenges. Iran aims to navigate its nuclear negotiations, while Pakistan emphasizes the importance of Kashmir and peace in the broader context of global conflicts. Both nations are leveraging their presence at the UN to advocate for their respective positions, reflecting their strategic priorities in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
