In a powerful address to the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif delivered a comprehensive speech touching on critical global issues. The UNGA address, marking Sharif’s second appearance at the prestigious forum, underscored Pakistan’s commitment to international cooperation and justice. From the ongoing conflict in Gaza to the longstanding Kashmir dispute and the pressing challenges of climate change, Sharif’s speech aimed to draw the world’s attention to urgent matters requiring immediate action.
PM Shehbaz Sharif UNGA Address
Prime Minister Sharif began his UNGA address by reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to the UN Charter and its founding principles. He then delved into several key issues:
1. Gaza Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis
Sharif condemned Israel’s military actions in Gaza, describing the situation as a “genocidal war” and a humanitarian catastrophe. He painted a vivid picture of the suffering endured by Palestinian civilians, particularly women and children, and called for an immediate end to the violence. The Prime Minister urged the international community to work towards a durable peace through a two-state solution, emphasizing the need for a sovereign Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
2. Kashmir Dispute and Regional Tensions
Drawing parallels between the plights of Palestinians and Kashmiris, Sharif criticized India’s actions in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir. He accused India of ignoring UN Security Council resolutions calling for a plebiscite and condemned the revocation of Kashmir’s special status in August 2019. Sharif described India’s use of nearly a million troops in the region as a “classic settler-colonial project” and issued a stern warning that Pakistan would respond decisively to any aggression across the Line of Control.
3. Climate Justice and Economic Reforms
The Prime Minister highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on countries like Pakistan, which contribute minimally to global carbon emissions yet bear the brunt of climate-induced disasters. Referencing the devastating floods that struck Pakistan in 2022, causing $30 billion in damages, Sharif called for the implementation of the “polluter pays” principle and urged developed nations to fulfill their commitments to providing climate finance.
Sharif also addressed the growing debt crisis facing developing countries, calling for reform of the international financial architecture. He emphasized the need for restructuring global trade and technology systems to promote equity and development, stating that the current financial architecture fails to address the needs of the most vulnerable nations.
Pakistan’s Progress and Regional Cooperation
In his UNGA address, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s economic recovery and efforts to combat terrorism. He spoke of the difficult decisions made to stabilize the economy, reduce fiscal deficits, and strengthen foreign reserves. Sharif claimed that these measures had resulted in reduced inflation and improved prospects for economic growth.
The Prime Minister also emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to fighting terrorism, noting the heavy price the country has paid in terms of lives lost and economic setbacks. He vowed to eliminate the threat posed by various extremist factions through the “Azm-e-Istehkam” (Resolve to Promote Stability) initiative.
Sharif praised the progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), particularly its second phase focusing on infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology investments. He highlighted the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in promoting regional connectivity and geo-economics.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif UNGA address served as a powerful call to action on several fronts. From the urgent need for peace in Gaza and resolution of the Kashmir dispute to the pressing demands of climate justice and economic reform, Sharif’s speech highlighted the interconnected nature of global challenges. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on Pakistan’s progress and commitment to regional cooperation underscored the country’s role as a responsible global actor.
As the international community grapples with these complex issues, Shehbaz Sharif UNGA address serves as a reminder of the importance of multilateral cooperation and the need for a more equitable global order. By bringing attention to critical matters such as the plight of Palestinians and Kashmiris, the disproportionate impact of climate change on developing nations, and the need for financial reforms, Sharif’s speech at the UNGA contributes to the ongoing dialogue on how to create a more just and peaceful world.
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