PM raises cross-boarder terrorism from India, Afghanistan at UNGA

Naveed Sidduqui
NEW YORK:In a significant address during the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly on September 22, 2023, the Caretaker Prime Minister delivered a speech that covered a range of pressing global concerns.
The Prime Minister emphasized the tense global situation with conflicts in Ukraine and many other regions and called for global cooperation and collective action to avoid a new Cold War.
Economic challenges, including slow global growth, high interest rates, and the impacts of Covid, conflicts, and climate change, were highlighted, with a focus on addressing poverty and hunger.
Commitments made at the SDG Summit were mentioned, urging the implementation of sustainable development goals and addressing debt problems in developing countries.
Climate change commitments from COP28, including climate finance and carbon emission targets, were discussed, emphasizing the importance of fair distribution of funds.
Pakistan’s own challenges, including floods and climate change impacts, were addressed, along with international support commitments.
The Prime Minister outlined Pakistan’s efforts for economic recovery, including stabilizing currency and attracting investment, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Peace with neighboring countries, including India, was highlighted as crucial, with the Kashmir dispute mentioned as a key factor for peace.
Concerns were raised over the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, including human rights abuses and a call for UN intervention.
The importance of peace in Afghanistan, counterterrorism efforts, and humanitarian assistance was stressed.
The Prime Minister welcomed progress in ending conflicts in Syria and Yemen, as well as the normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
UN peacekeeping efforts and the safety of peacekeepers were acknowledged, with a focus on addressing challenges in missions.
The need to counter terrorism without discrimination, address root causes, and promote religious tolerance was discussed.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of celebrating diversity and combating Islamophobia.
Pakistan’s role in advocating against Islamophobia, including International Day to Combat Islamophobia, was highlighted.
The speech underscored the importance of effective multilateralism within the UN framework.
Pakistan’s stance on UN Security Council reform was mentioned, with a preference for expansion in the non-permanent category.
The Prime Minister called for reducing great power rivalry, adherence to UN principles, and resolving conflicts through peaceful means.
Overall, Prime Minister addressed a wide range of global issues, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and diplomacy in addressing today’s challenges.