ISLAMABAD — Shehbaz Sharif meeting Antonio Guterres in Islamabad focused on global peace, UN reforms, regional stability and Pakistan’s diplomatic priorities. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif welcomed United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and discussed a range of international and regional issues.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly welcomed Secretary-General Guterres and praised his commitment to the UN Charter, multilateralism, international law, dialogue and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

The prime minister also commended Guterres for his efforts to promote global peace and security during his tenure as UN secretary-general.

Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to an Effective United Nations

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to an effective, inclusive and representative United Nations.

He said that at a time when the multilateral system is facing significant challenges, the role of the United Nations has become even more important.

The prime minister welcomed Secretary-General Guterres’ UN80 initiative and emphasized that reforms at the United Nations should reflect the priorities and concerns of developing countries.

He also called for greater efforts toward conflict prevention, peaceful dispute resolution and strengthening peacebuilding mechanisms.

Shehbaz Sharif Meeting Antonio Guterres Focuses on Global Peace

During the Shehbaz Sharif meeting Antonio Guterres, the prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s longstanding commitment to UN peacekeeping operations and highlighted the country’s continued contribution to international peace and security.

Secretary-General Guterres also appreciated Pakistan’s longstanding contribution to UN peacekeeping missions and its constructive engagement with the UN Security Council.

Pakistan Highlights Diplomatic Efforts

The prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and reduce tensions in the region and beyond.

He specifically referred to Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran.

Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s position that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable means of resolving disputes and preventing further escalation.

Kashmir Issue Discussed

The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability and emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

He also raised the issue of the Indus Waters Treaty, stating that it is an international agreement and that India’s unilateral decision to suspend the treaty does not have a legal basis.

Afghanistan and Cross-Border Terrorism

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is in Pakistan’s interest.

He expressed serious concern over terrorism originating from Afghanistan and the presence of militant groups on Afghan soil.

The prime minister called for concrete and verifiable action against such groups to address Pakistan’s security concerns.

Pakistan Reaffirms Support for Palestine

The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and their right to establish an independent state.

He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Gaza peace plan and implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2803.

Climate Finance for Developing Countries

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the need to provide developing countries with greater access to affordable and concessional financing to support economic development and climate resilience.

He emphasized that developing nations require adequate financial resources to address development challenges while dealing with the growing impacts of climate change.

Guterres Praises Pakistan’s Diplomatic Role

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised Pakistan’s longstanding contributions to the United Nations and global peace and security.

He particularly acknowledged Pakistan’s important role in UN peacekeeping missions and its constructive engagement with the UN Security Council.

Guterres also expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue, mediation and de-escalation.

The UN chief welcomed Pakistan’s continued commitment to multilateralism and the principles and objectives of the UN Charter.

Official Dinner Hosted for UN Secretary-General

Following the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted a dinner in honor of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and members of his delegation.

Key Points

• Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres discussed global peace, multilateralism, UN reforms and Pakistan’s role in international diplomacy.
• Pakistan highlighted its positions on Jammu and Kashmir, the Indus Waters Treaty, Afghanistan, Palestine and efforts to promote dialogue between the United States and Iran.
• Guterres praised Pakistan’s contributions to UN peacekeeping, its constructive role in the Security Council and its diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and reduce tensions.