UNITED NATIONS: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif addressed the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, opening his speech with the recitation from the Holy Quran and extending warm congratulations to the President of the General Assembly on assuming office.
He also commended UN Secretary-General António Guterres, acknowledging his “courageous and determined leadership during some of the most testing times faced by the world body.”
In his address, the Prime Minister stressed that the world today is “more complex than ever before,” pointing to escalating conflicts across regions, open violations of international law, worsening humanitarian crises, and the growing menace of terrorism.
He further warned that disinformation and fake news were eroding global trust, while climate change had emerged as a grave challenge that endangered the survival of humanity itself.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s foreign policy vision, Sharif said it is guided by the principles of the country’s founding father, rooted in peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and diplomacy to achieve the peaceful resolution of disputes. He emphasized that Pakistan believes in constructive engagement but remains fully prepared to defend its sovereignty against aggression.
Turning to regional security concerns, the Prime Minister recalled that during his previous address at the UNGA he had cautioned that Pakistan would take decisive action against any act of aggression. “That warning proved accurate when, in May, Pakistan faced aggression from the eastern front,” he said.
He accused India of exploiting a humanitarian tragedy for political purposes, carrying out attacks on civilian populations, and violating Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Sharif stated that Pakistan was compelled to exercise its inherent right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter.
Praising the country’s armed forces, he said that under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar, the military demonstrated “unparalleled courage and professional excellence,” successfully downing seven Indian fighter jets.
The Prime Minister paid glowing tributes to Pakistan’s martyrs and their families, saying that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
“The courage and resilience of the mothers of our martyrs illuminate our path. The names of our heroes will forever be remembered with dignity, honor, and pride,” he declared.
Sharif concluded his address by underscoring Pakistan’s firm commitment to defending its sovereignty, upholding international law, and contributing to global peace.
He reiterated Pakistan’s call for collective international action to address the shared challenges of conflict, terrorism, disinformation, and climate change, stressing that only through solidarity and cooperation could the international community ensure a safer and more secure future.