At the SCO-Plus summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Pakistan has urged the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, to fulfill its responsibility to ensure an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Addressing the summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of allowing the free flow of humanitarian assistance and protecting civilians across the Gaza Strip. He highlighted the severe suffering of the Palestinian people due to Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in over 37,000 deaths, including thousands of children.
The Prime Minister stressed that the United Nations must enforce its resolutions for the peaceful settlement of longstanding disputes. He noted Pakistan’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the term 2025-26, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to multilateralism and the peaceful resolution of all outstanding conflicts.
Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s stance against the unilateral and illegal use of force and its dedication to combating terrorism in all forms. He highlighted Pakistan’s legacy of contributing to international peace and security, adhering strictly to the principles of the UN charter.
Addressing global crises, he condemned the rising incitement to hatred and discrimination based on race and religion, particularly Islamophobia. He also called for unity in addressing climate-induced disasters and the socio-economic aftershocks of COVID-19.
On climate change, the Prime Minister called for financial and technical assistance for climate-vulnerable countries to help them address the threat. He emphasized the need for fundamental reforms in the international financial architecture to make it more effective, inclusive, and equitable.
He also advocated for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Regarding the SCO, Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing the SCO agenda in partnership with member states to strengthen multilateral institutions and enhance global cooperation. He stressed the importance of working together to achieve a peaceful and equitable world order, respecting principles of self-determination, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries.
