United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir at the General Headquarters (GHQ) on Wednesday. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, the regional security environment, and the United Nations' role in promoting international peace and security were discussed, according to a news release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The two sides exchanged views on regional stability, the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, India's abeyance of the Indus Waters Treaty, and terrorism emanating from Afghanistan. The COAS reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to international peace and highlighted its contributions to UN peacekeeping missions.
He also lauded the United Nations' role under the leadership of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in advancing peace, stability, and humanitarian cooperation. The UN Secretary-General paid tribute to the sacrifices and contributions of Pakistan and its armed forces in the war against terror and in UN peacekeeping missions.
He also acknowledged Pakistan's continued commitment to international peace and security, specifically appreciating Pakistan's efforts towards the peaceful resolution of regional conflicts. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed Antonio Guterres, who is on an official visit to Pakistan.
The Prime Minister lauded the Secretary-General for his principled commitment to the UN Charter, multilateralism, international law, dialogue, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. He also acknowledged his outstanding contribution to international peace and security during his tenure.
Among other issues, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan's strong commitment to an effective, inclusive, and representative UN, particularly at a time when multilateralism faces significant challenges. He reiterated Pakistan's commitment to regional peace and stability and emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
He highlighted that the Indus Waters Treaty is a binding international agreement and that India's unilateral decision to place it in abeyance has no legal basis. He also stressed that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan remains in Pakistan's interest.
The Secretary-General appreciated Pakistan's longstanding contribution to the UN and international peace and security. He particularly appreciated Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue, mediation, and de-escalation, and welcomed its continued commitment to multilateralism and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.
Later, the Prime Minister hosted a dinner in honour of the United Nations Secretary-General and his delegation. The visit underscores the deepening cooperation between Pakistan and the global body as both parties seek to navigate complex geopolitical challenges in South Asia and beyond.
