Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for peaceful engagement with India, offering comprehensive talks to resolve longstanding disputes. Speaking at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, the Prime Minister said Pakistan seeks dialogue and reconciliation, not conflict, after proving its ability to defend its sovereignty.
Opening his address with Quranic verses, Shehbaz Sharif reassured Kashmiris that Pakistan will always support their right to self-determination. He stressed that Pakistan would never allow violations of the Indus Waters Treaty and urged India to adhere to international commitments.
Highlighting today’s complex global landscape, Shehbaz Sharif pointed out that conflicts are intensifying and humanitarian challenges are rising. He noted that terrorism remains a severe threat while misinformation campaigns continue to erode trust among nations and societies.
Climate change was another focal point of his address. The Prime Minister reminded the Assembly of Pakistan’s vulnerability despite its negligible role in global emissions. He highlighted the destructive floods of 2022, which caused losses of $34 billion, and stressed that collective global action is essential to protect vulnerable populations.
On regional security, Shehbaz Sharif recalled Pakistan’s strong response to Indian hostilities, including downing multiple fighter jets. He described the episode as a moment of pride in which Pakistan defended its people and territory with resolve. “We fought the war and now we want to win the peace,” he declared. He also praised the diplomatic role of then-US President Donald Trump in de-escalating tensions, saying his efforts helped avoid a devastating war.
The Prime Minister firmly condemned Israel’s campaign in Gaza, calling it genocide and a shameful chapter in modern history. He assured the world that Pakistan continues to stand by the Palestinians and supports a state based on 1967 borders. His remarks echoed calls for stronger international solidarity with oppressed peoples.
Turning to Pakistan’s own sacrifices, Shehbaz Sharif noted that 90,000 Pakistanis had lost their lives in the fight against terrorism. He urged the Afghan interim government to prevent militant groups from using their soil to launch attacks on Pakistan.
Outlining Pakistan’s foreign policy, the Prime Minister described it as based on respect, cooperation, and peaceful conflict resolution. He condemned terrorism globally, called for a political settlement of the Ukraine conflict, and urged stronger multilateral cooperation to tackle global challenges.
During his US visit, Shehbaz Sharif was welcomed with warmth and respect. His meetings with President Trump, military officials, and leading philanthropists such as Bill Gates underlined Pakistan’s growing recognition on the world stage. President Trump praised Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir as remarkable leaders with vision and courage.
Analysts say Shehbaz Sharif’s UN address marked a turning point in Pakistan’s international narrative. His call for peace with India, defense of Kashmiri rights, solidarity with Palestinians, and warnings on climate change presented Pakistan as a country determined to combine resilience with diplomacy.
The Prime Minister’s message resonated as one of hope, responsibility, and forward momentum, highlighting Pakistan’s role as a committed partner for global peace and sustainable development.
