Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in New York on September 24, 2024, to attend the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He is set to address global concerns, including the Gaza war, Kashmir, climate change, and terrorism, according to Information Minister Ataullah Tarar.
Sharif will deliver his speech at the UNGA on Friday. His agenda includes participating in high-level discussions, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Moment 2024 and a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) debate titled “Leadership for Peace.” Additionally, the PM will attend a session on the rising threat of sea-level increase.
“The prime minister will focus on issues such as the Palestinian conflict, Kashmir, climate change, and terrorism,” stated Tarar. Pakistan has emphasized the urgency of a ceasefire in Gaza and has condemned Israel’s actions, calling for accountability. “Peace in Palestine is essential for peace in the world,” he added.
The conflict in Gaza erupted on October 7 when Hamas fighters entered southern Israel, leading to the deaths of 1,200 people and the capture of over 250 hostages. Israel’s subsequent military campaign has devastated Gaza, with over 41,000 deaths, mass displacement of 2.3 million people, and widespread hunger and disease.
Pakistan has no diplomatic ties with Israel and advocates for a sovereign Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif (Jerusalem) as its capital.
During his stay, Sharif will highlight Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change, despite contributing only 2% to global carbon emissions. “Pakistan disproportionately suffers from climate-related disasters,” explained Tarar.
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) detailed Sharif’s engagements in New York, including attending a reception hosted by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. He will meet with several global leaders, including the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, Bill Gates, and IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva.
Sharif will also participate in a dinner hosted by Muhammad Yunus to mark Bangladesh’s 50th year at the UN. Additionally, he will meet with the US-Pakistan Business Council to promote investment-friendly policies.
Accompanying the prime minister are Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Education Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.
