Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif discusses regional conflicts, Lebanon’s sovereignty, Palestine and stronger Pakistan-Bangladesh ties during UNGA meetings.
Web Desk: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a series of diplomatic meetings with the leaders of Lebanon and Bangladesh, as well as United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly in New York.
The discussions focused on regional peace, Lebanon’s sovereignty, the situation in the Middle East, Palestine and strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Shehbaz reaffirms support for Lebanon
During his meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, political independence, unity and territorial integrity.
The two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and discussed developments in Lebanon and the wider Middle East.
Shehbaz called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, adherence to ceasefire arrangements and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied Lebanese territory. He also called for full implementation of relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The Pakistani prime minister said Islamabad would continue to stand in solidarity with Lebanon and its people in their pursuit of peace, stability and prosperity.
The leaders also discussed expanding cooperation through high-level exchanges, trade and investment, defence and institutional links, as well as coordination at the United Nations and other multilateral forums.
Meeting with UN chief
Shehbaz also met UN Secretary-General António Guterres, with discussions covering major regional and international challenges.
The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s support for dialogue and diplomacy as mechanisms for resolving conflicts and restoring peace, particularly in the Middle East.
Shehbaz also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and statehood.
According to Geo, he also raised concerns about rising Islamophobia and terrorism emanating from Afghan territory. Shehbaz thanked Guterres for recognising Pakistan’s contribution to international peace and security and its efforts to promote dialogue and regional stability.
The prime minister also recalled Guterres’s visit to Pakistan during the devastating 2022 floods and said Islamabad remained ready to contribute to international peace efforts.
Focus on Strait of Hormuz
During his diplomatic engagements, Shehbaz also stressed the importance of maintaining freedom of commercial activity through the Strait of Hormuz.
He said vessels should be able to use the waterway without threats, arguing that safe commercial navigation would contribute to regional peace.
The Strait of Hormuz is a major international energy and shipping route, making its security an important regional and global issue.
Pakistan and Bangladesh agree to deepen ties
Shehbaz separately met Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
The two leaders reviewed Pakistan-Bangladesh relations and expressed satisfaction with what Geo described as positive momentum in bilateral ties.
They agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity, education, tourism and people-to-people contacts.
The leaders also discussed regional and global developments and agreed to maintain coordination at multilateral forums, particularly the United Nations.
Shehbaz congratulated Bangladesh on assuming the presidency of the 81st UN General Assembly and expressed Pakistan’s support for its efforts to advance UN objectives.
Dar continues diplomatic contacts
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also continued Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements in New York.
Dar met Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, with the two sides discussing bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments. They agreed to remain in close contact.
Shehbaz’s UNGA engagements come as Pakistan seeks to highlight diplomacy, regional de-escalation and bilateral cooperation during the high-level UN session.
