Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a series of diplomatic meetings in New York on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, focusing on regional peace, stronger bilateral relations and continued multilateral cooperation.
During his meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, political independence, unity and territorial integrity. The two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and discussed developments in the Middle East. Shehbaz called for an immediate end to hostilities, respect for ceasefire arrangements, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied Lebanese territory and implementation of relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. They also discussed expanding cooperation in trade, investment, defence and institutional links.
Shehbaz also met UN Secretary General António Guterres and stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving regional tensions. According to Pakistan’s official statement, the discussion covered the Middle East, Palestine, Afghanistan and wider international challenges. Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people’s right to self determination and statehood, while also raising concerns about Islamophobia and terrorism.
Pakistan’s position on regional peace was also linked to the Strait of Hormuz, where Shehbaz stressed the importance of keeping commercial shipping routes open and free from threats.
In another important engagement, Shehbaz met Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. Both leaders welcomed positive momentum in Pakistan Bangladesh relations and agreed to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity, education, tourism and people to people contacts. They also agreed to maintain coordination on regional and global issues through multilateral forums. Pakistan congratulated Bangladesh on assuming the presidency of the 81st UN General Assembly.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also continued Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements in New York. He met Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi to discuss bilateral relations and regional and international developments.
The meetings underline Pakistan’s current diplomatic focus on dialogue, regional de escalation, stronger regional ties and cooperation through the United Nations.
