PM Shehbaz, UN Chief Guterres Discuss Regional and Global Issues

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in Islamabad, praising his commitment to the UN Charter, multilateralism, international law and the peaceful resolution of disputes. During the meeting, the prime minister welcomed the UN80 Initiative and stressed that reforms of the United Nations should reflect the priorities and concerns of developing countries.He emphasised the importance of strengthening the UN’s role in conflict prevention, peacekeeping and peacebuilding while reaffirming Pakistan’s continued contribution to UN peacekeeping missions.
PM Shehbaz also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation, including its mediation role between the United States and Iran.
He maintained that dialogue and diplomacy remained the only viable means of resolving disputes and preventing further escalation.
Discussing the Indus Waters Treaty, the prime minister said it remained a binding international agreement and maintained that India’s unilateral decision to place the treaty in abeyance had no legal basis.
On Afghanistan, Shehbaz said a peaceful and stable neighbouring country remained in Pakistan’s interest. However, he expressed concern over terrorism emanating from Afghan soil and called for concrete and verifiable action against terrorist groups.
The prime minister also highlighted the challenges facing developing countries and stressed the need for affordable financing to support sustainable development and strengthen climate resilience.