UN chief lauds Pakistan’s efforts to promote dialogue, mediation

ISLAMABAD -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appreciated Pakistan's longstanding contribution to the UN, as well as its diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue, mediation and de-escalation.

He was addressing a joint press stakeout along with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad today.

The UN Secretary-General praised Pakistan for its role as a trusted mediator between the United States and Iran, saying Islamabad's credibility with countries at odds with each other helped create conditions for negotiations and de-escalation in one of the world's most dangerous conflicts.

Antonio Guterres said he has seen Pakistan as a source of solidarity and solutions. He further said that Pakistan has shown that even in difficult circumstances, compassion and responsibility must go hand in hand.

He said Pakistan matters a lot not only because of its size, but because that brings an essential perspective to global debates.

He particularly lauded Pakistan's efforts for mediation between Iran and the United States.

The UN Secretary-General said, "I salute Pakistan's leadership in helping to create the conditions for dialogue between the United States and Iran and mediating the conflict."

He said the efforts of Pakistan's leadership helped deliver the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, the subsequent ceasefire and the framework for future negotiations.

Antonio Guterres said every Pakistani should be proud of this pivotal role.

The UN Secretary-General said from Islamabad, he wants to send a loud and clear message to all parties to end the conflict, return to diplomacy and fully restore navigational rights and freedoms in accordance with international law.

He said the United Nations is committed to working together with Pakistan to uphold protection of principles and ensure that the returns of Afghans proceed in a voluntary, safe and dignified way.

Antonio Guterres called for an immediate end to the suffering of Palestinians and the full implementation of the peace plan. He also expressed concern over violence and settlement decisions in the West Bank, warning that such developments could undermine the two-state solution.

He also called for reforms in the UN Security Council to make the body more representative and legitimate, while urging major powers to unite when fundamental principles of international law are at stake. He said developing countries need greater access to development finance, debt relief and concessional funding.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Pakistan's efforts had brought the United States and Iran to direct dialogue after 47 years.

He termed Islamabad's contribution as a humble and significant effort that is rooted in the principles of sovereign equality, territorial integrity, non-interference, self-determination and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

He said Pakistan has consistently supported diplomatic efforts for peace in Gaza and recalled Pakistan's participation with seven other Arab and Muslim countries in engagement with US President Donald Trump.

The Deputy Prime Minister, expressing Pakistan's concerns regarding Jammu and Kashmir, welcomed the United Nations' continued reference to the UN framework and Security Council resolutions for resolving the dispute.

He urged the international community to ensure implementation of UN Security Council resolutions, saying that resolutions concerning Kashmir and Palestine are still unimplemented.

On the occasion, the United Nations Secretary-General also planted a sapling on the premises of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad.