New york: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their legitimate struggle for self-determination and statehood. He was talking to Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres in New York.
According to Radio Pakistan, during the meeting, Ishaq Dar appreciated the Secretary-General's continued advocacy for the two-state solution and the implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan, as endorsed in Security Council Resolution 2803. Both sides exchanged views on recent regional developments, including the situation in the Middle East and West Asia.
The Deputy Prime Minister appreciated the Secretary-General's principled position and support for Pakistan's mediation efforts. He highlighted Pakistan's successful hosting of the Islamabad Talks in April, which represented an important diplomatic breakthrough. He noted that the ceasefire initially facilitated through Pakistan's efforts continued to hold. The Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed support for continued engagement and dialogue to achieve durable peace and stability in the region.
Discussing developments in South Asia, he expressed concern over provocative and inflammatory statements by the Indian leadership that undermine regional stability. He underscored that India's decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance constituted a clear violation of international law, the Treaty's provisions, and established norms governing inter-state relations.
He emphasized that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute remained the core issue between Pakistan and India and reiterated that its just resolution, in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, was essential for lasting peace in South Asia.
The Deputy Prime Minister underlined that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan remained vital for regional stability. He, however, expressed deep concern over the continued use of Afghan soil by terrorist groups against Pakistan. He reaffirmed Pakistan's resolve to safeguard its national security and protect its citizens in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister welcomed the Secretary-General's UN80 Initiative and appreciated his leadership in this regard. He emphasized that the interests and priorities of developing countries should remain central to the reform agenda.
Reiterating Pakistan's longstanding position on Security Council reform, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the need for a comprehensive reform process based on the principles of sovereign equality, transparency, inclusivity, and broad-based consensus among Member States. He said these principles could only be upheld through the addition of elected members.
In his remarks, Secretary-General Guterres appreciated Pakistan's active engagement at the United Nations and its continued contributions to international peace and security, including through diplomacy and UN peacekeeping efforts.