PM Shehbaz holds talks with Lebanon, Bangladesh leaders and UN chief

NEW YORK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a series of diplomatic meetings on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, discussing regional conflicts, bilateral relations and international cooperation with the leaders of Lebanon and Bangladesh and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

During his meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, political independence, unity and territorial integrity.

The two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and discussed developments in the Middle East. They agreed on the need to strengthen cooperation between Pakistan and Lebanon through increased political contacts, trade, investment, defence and institutional engagement.

Shehbaz called for an immediate end to hostilities and urged all sides to respect ceasefire arrangements. He also stressed the importance of the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied Lebanese territory and implementation of relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.

The prime minister expressed concern over continuing violence and incursions into Lebanese territory. He said Pakistan would continue supporting Lebanon and its people in their efforts to achieve peace, stability and development.

Shehbaz also met UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and discussed major regional and international challenges.

The prime minister stressed that dialogue and diplomacy should remain central to resolving conflicts, particularly amid continuing instability in the Middle East.

He reiterated Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and statehood. The two leaders also discussed concerns over rising Islamophobia and terrorism originating from Afghan territory.

Shehbaz thanked Guterres for recognising Pakistan’s contribution to international peace and security, including its role in peacekeeping missions and its sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.

The prime minister also recalled Guterres’ visit to Pakistan following the devastating floods of 2022, when the UN chief visited flood-affected areas and met displaced communities.

Shehbaz said Pakistan remained committed to contributing to international peace efforts and promoting dialogue to address regional disputes.

The prime minister also highlighted the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for commercial shipping. He said vessels should be able to use the strategic waterway safely and without threats, describing freedom of navigation as important for regional stability.

Pakistan, Bangladesh agree to expand cooperation

In another meeting, Shehbaz held talks with Bangladeshi Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and welcomed the positive momentum in ties between the two countries.

They agreed to expand cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity, education, tourism and people-to-people contacts.

The two prime ministers also exchanged views on regional and international developments and agreed to maintain coordination at multilateral forums, particularly the United Nations.

Shehbaz congratulated Bangladesh on assuming the presidency of the 81st UN General Assembly and expressed Pakistan’s support for its efforts to advance the UN’s objectives.

He said both countries had agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation while maintaining close coordination on regional and global matters.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar continued his diplomatic engagements in New York.

Dar met Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session. The two officials discussed bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments.

They agreed to remain in close contact and continue consultations on matters of mutual interest.