Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke at the 79th session of UNGA on Friday; he vehemently condemned the Israeli aggression in Gaza and also highlighted the issue of Kashmir, Climate Change, and the role of the international community in seeking justice.
He started with a Quranic verse of pride in representing Pakistan again and that Pakistan will continue to fully adhere to the UN Charter. I also congratulate the newly elected President of UNGA, H.E. Mr. Dennis Francis, and India re-affirmed that we remain committed to the pursuit of world peace and progress as envisioned by our founding father Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
🇵🇰 Pakistan – Prime Minister Addresses United Nations General Debate, 79th Session | #UNGA
Table of Contents
Call for Action on Gaza
Pakistani former PM Sharif also voiced his outrage over the continued assault on Gaza, terming it as genocidal war and humanitarian crisis. He spoke of the plight of Palestinians, especially the civilian population and appealed for the stopping of the bloodshed. Sharif demanded the Palestiniand get full membership status in the UN and only a two-state solution – the state of Palestine with its capital in East Jerusalem and the state of Israel – should be allowed based on territories being created prior to 1967.
He passionately appealed to the world: “The blood of Gaza’s children is on the hands of the suppressors and the enablers who keep fueling this.”
Kashmir and Indian Aggression
Comparing Palestine with Kashmir, Sharif denounced India on Human rights brutality in Jammu and Kashmir and alleged that India had violated United Nations resolutions. He condemned the action of Indian government to abolish Article 370 in Kashmir in 2019 and demographic redefine. In his words, the situation on the LOC is nothing but a mere ‘settler-colonial project’, adding that any aggression on its part will be met with ‘a decisive drastic Pakistani response’.
He called on India to do the opposite and seek the negotiated settlement in accordance with the UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.
Climate Change and Pakistan’s Vulnerabilities
Global Economic Reforms
Sharif described the current international financial system as “morally dead,” and pointed to the developing nation debt crisis. In relation to this, he said that there is a need for changes that would lead to equitable trade, technology, and trade finances since the current structure disadvantages the developing countries.
Pakistan’s Economic Recovery and Fight Against Terrorism
Speaking of the country’s economy, Sharif described its revival saying that some tough, but vital steps were taken to restore the stability and decrease inflation rates. He also pretended Pakistan stands against terrorism and reminded that Pakistani has suffered a lot in terms of human losses and money. He promised to purge out any such links under the government’s ‘Azm-e-Instekam’.
Regional Cooperation and Connectivity
Speaking of the CPEC achievements, Sharif stressed infrastructure and investment in renewable power sources. He also spoke of regional relations, especially with a focus on Afghanistan, and highlighted the concern for human rights and counter-terrorism.
Islamophobia and Global Unity
Sharif spoke about increased Islamophobia and called for protection from increasing acts of violence against mosques or the Quran. He condemned India’s Hindu supremacist policies to dominate Muslims in the country. Addressing Atifete Sharif called for greater actions to address Islamophobia around the world asserting Pakistan’s support for the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s (OIC) plan of action.
Call for Justice and Peace
In the end, Sharif appealed for action on global priorities pointing out that the weak are not without a voice. For these strong reasons, he asked for justice, equality, and multilateral cooperation and discussion with the world by saying “Let us not fail the future of humanity.”
This was a strong appeal by Sharif to talk and do something for the betterment of the world at present.
READ ALSO: Pakistan’s $7 Billion IMF Bailout: A Vital Lifeline