Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for UN reform during a meeting with Secretary-General
Antonio Guterres in Islamabad on Wednesday night. He said the United Nations should become
more effective, inclusive and representative while giving greater attention to developing
countries around the world.

The prime minister welcomed the UN80 Initiative and stressed stronger conflict prevention,
peacekeeping, peacebuilding and peaceful settlement of international disputes. He also
reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding contribution to United Nations peacekeeping and its efforts to
support international peace and security worldwide.

Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and reduce tensions,
including its mediation role between the United States and Iran. He said dialogue and diplomacy
remain important ways to resolve disputes and prevent conflicts from becoming more serious
internationally.

On Kashmir, the prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s position that the Jammu and Kashmir
dispute should be resolved peacefully through UN resolutions. He said any settlement should
also respect the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and support lasting regional peace and
stability.

Shehbaz also described the Indus Waters Treaty as a binding international agreement and
rejected India’s unilateral decision to suspend it. Regarding Afghanistan, he said a peaceful and
stable Afghanistan remained important for Pakistan and regional security and lasting regional
peace.

He expressed concern about terrorism linked to Afghan territory and called for concrete and
verifiable action against terrorist groups. The prime minister also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support
for Palestinian self-determination and statehood, along with implementation of the Gaza Peace
Plan.

He further called for affordable and concessional financing so developing countries can support
economic growth and improve climate resilience. Guterres appreciated Pakistan’s contribution
to UN peacekeeping and praised its diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue, mediation and
de-escalation during cooperation.

Later, Prime Minister Shehbaz hosted a dinner for Guterres and his delegation, concluding a
day focused on cooperation and diplomacy between Pakistan and the United Nations.

Source: Radio Pakistan

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