Guterres hails Pakistan's role in global peace

ISLAMABAD:

Outgoing United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday appreciated Pakistan's longstanding contribution to the UN and international peace and security, particularly its diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue, mediation and de-escalation.

Guterres, who is currently on a three-day visit to Pakistan, called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister's House on Wednesday evening. According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office, several matters of international importance came under discussion.

During the meeting, Shehbaz acknowledged the secretary general's contribution to international peace and security during his tenure. He reaffirmed Pakistan's strong commitment to an effective, inclusive and representative UN, particularly at a time when multilateralism faced significant challenges.

The statement said Shehbaz welcomed the secretary general's UN80 Initiative and emphasised that UN reform should remain responsive to the priorities of developing countries while strengthening conflict prevention, peaceful settlement of disputes, peacekeeping and peacebuilding.

The prime minister highlighted Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation, including its mediation role between the United States and Iran. "Dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to resolving disputes and preventing escalation," he said.

He also emphasised the need for a peaceful resolution of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) dispute in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

Highlighting the Indus Waters Treaty, which was unilaterally suspended by India following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the prime minister called it a binding international agreement. "India's unilateral decision to place it in abeyance has no legal basis," he said.

During the meeting, Shehbaz expressed serious concern over terrorism emanating from Afghanistan and the presence of terrorist groups on Afghan soil.