Report: Manzoor Hussain
NEW YORK : Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Friday, began his speech by reciting verses from the Holy Quran.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to the UN Charter, the prime minister highlighted the numerous challenges facing the world today. “The current global situation presents immense challenges, many of which have been exacerbated by climate change,” he said.
Sharif condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza, stressing the devastating human toll. “We denounce Israel’s continued aggression in Gaza,” he remarked, adding that the tragic events in Gaza had “shaken humanity to its core.”
“No one can remain silent over the killing of innocent children, women, and defenceless civilians,” Sharif declared, emphasising that those prolonging Israeli aggression had “blood on their hands” as well.
“The blood of the Palestinians will not be in vain,” the prime minister vowed, urging the international community to take meaningful action towards sustainable peace and a two-state solution.
He expressed concern that the failure to implement UN resolutions has heightened risks in the Middle East, stating, “Israel has been given a free hand to escalate its aggression.”
The prime minister also emphasised that the Kashmir issue remains on the UN Security Council’s agenda, pointing to existing resolutions that affirm the right to self-determination for the people of Kashmir.
“It was agreed that Kashmiris would be granted their right to self-determination,” Sharif said, while condemning the ongoing human rights violations by India in occupied Kashmir.
Prime Minister Shehbaz condemned the “malicious attempts” to alter the demographic composition of occupied Kashmir, noting that non-locals are being resettled in the region.
He remarked that despite Indian oppression, the people of Kashmir continue to uphold the ideology of Burhan Wani.
Sharif warned that India’s aggressive ambitions pose a threat to regional peace, expressing regret that “India has not responded to Pakistan’s positive proposals.”
He further declared, “Pakistan will deliver a decisive response to any Indian aggression.”
Sharif also mentioned other global crises, including the war in Ukraine, which he said had compounded international problems. He stressed that the global community must act to ensure lasting peace and stability.
According to a statement by Foreign Office earlier, Sharif is expected to urge the UN to resolve these key issues, both of which have been on the UN Security Council’s agenda for years. The premier will call for a renewed commitment to multilateralism and stress Pakistan’s support for the UN’s role in maintaining global peace, security, and prosperity.
“Pakistan stands committed to working with all UN member states to uphold the UN Charter, prevent conflict, foster peace, and promote global prosperity,” Sharif is expected to tell the General Assembly, according to an official briefing.
As an incoming member of the UN Security Council for 2025-26, Sharif will reiterate Pakistan’s intention to play an active role in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
In his speech, the prime minister will also address a range of pressing issues, including the impact of climate change, Pakistan’s ongoing fight against terrorism, and the financial strain on debt-ridden countries. Furthermore, he will draw attention to India’s occupation of Kashmir and condemn what he describes as the “genocide” of Palestinians by Israeli forces.
The address comes ahead of speeches by other world leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose government’s ongoing bombardment of Gaza and tensions with Lebanon have drawn widespread international scrutiny. Netanyahu is set to be the third speaker following Sharif.
Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, is also on the schedule to address the General Assembly. He is expected to discuss his administration’s plans for fresh elections, following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last month.
