New York, September 25, 2026: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday met United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
During the wide-ranging meeting, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to multilateralism and the central role of the United Nations in promoting international peace and development.
According to a Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) statement, Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s strong commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and appreciated Guterres’ leadership and role in upholding the charter across the organisation’s work.
The two leaders exchanged views on major regional and international developments, including the situation in the Middle East.
The prime minister stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving regional tensions and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region.
He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and statehood.
Shehbaz Sharif drew the UN secretary-general’s attention to the rising trend of Islamophobia, particularly in Pakistan’s immediate neighbourhood, and stressed the need for effective international action to curb it.
The two leaders also discussed the situation in Afghanistan and what Pakistan described as a drastic increase in terrorism emanating from Afghan soil.
Guterres commended Pakistan’s role and strong voice at the United Nations, as well as its contribution to international peace and security.
The UN secretary-general particularly appreciated Pakistan’s mediation efforts aimed at the peaceful resolution of conflicts and promoting durable peace and stability in the region.
He also acknowledged Pakistan’s role and sacrifices in countering terrorism.
