New York, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif addressed the General Debate of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, urging world leaders to strengthen multilateralism, resolve longstanding disputes, and confront global challenges ranging from climate change to armed conflicts.
In his remarks, the Prime Minister congratulated the new President of the General Assembly and commended UN Secretary-General António Guterres for his leadership in “testing times.” He underscored that the world today faces intensifying conflicts, humanitarian crises, terrorism, disinformation, and the existential threat of climate change — challenges that demand urgent collective action.
Pakistan’s Position on Peace and Security
Reaffirming Pakistan’s foreign policy principles, rooted in the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Prime Minister emphasized dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful settlement of disputes. He highlighted Pakistan’s response to recent aggression on its eastern border, praising the professionalism and bravery of the armed forces, while acknowledging international diplomatic efforts, particularly by U.S. President Donald Trump, in facilitating a ceasefire that helped avert escalation.
The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s readiness for “composite, comprehensive, and result-oriented dialogue” with India, warning that unilateral actions such as attempts to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty would be treated as acts of war. He further underlined that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains a dangerous flashpoint between two nuclear-armed states, vowing Pakistan’s continued support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination under UN auspices.
Global Solidarity with Palestine
The Prime Minister called the plight of Palestinians “a stain on the global conscience” and condemned Israel’s ongoing occupation and military actions, particularly in Gaza. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with pre-1967 borders and Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
Counterterrorism and Regional Stability
Addressing terrorism, the Prime Minister recalled Pakistan’s sacrifices of over 90,000 lives and economic losses exceeding USD 150 billion in the global fight against extremism. He condemned foreign-sponsored terrorist groups operating from Afghan soil and stressed the importance of an inclusive political framework in Afghanistan, coupled with firm action against terrorist networks.
Climate Emergency and Development Agenda
Declaring climate change “a threat to survival,” the Prime Minister reminded the Assembly of Pakistan’s devastating floods in 2022 and 2025, which displaced millions and caused billions in losses. Despite contributing less than 1% to global emissions, Pakistan ranks among the most climate-vulnerable countries. He called on developed nations to fulfill climate finance commitments, while reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to clean energy, resilience, and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Economic Reforms and Partnerships
On the domestic front, the Prime Minister highlighted Pakistan’s structural economic reforms, digital transformation, and investment in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and technology. He praised strategic partnerships, particularly with China under the Belt and Road Initiative, as drivers of growth and connectivity.
Commitment to Multilateralism
As a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, Pakistan reaffirmed its role in conflict prevention, peacekeeping, and advocating for comprehensive UN reform. The Prime Minister stressed that adding more permanent members to the Council would “compound paralysis” rather than strengthen credibility.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister pledged Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and development. He urged member states to seize the UN’s 80th anniversary as a moment to “make history, not just commemorate it,” and to work together for a fair, inclusive, and reinvigorated multilateral order.
