Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that Pakistan had decisively repelled Indian aggression and was now ready for comprehensive and result-oriented dialogue with New Delhi to resolve all outstanding disputes.
The Prime Minister began his address with a recitation from the Holy Quran, extending congratulations to the President of the 80th General Assembly session and praising UN Secretary-General António Guterres for his leadership during turbulent times.
In his wide-ranging speech, Shehbaz Sharif said today’s world is more complex and dangerous than ever, with escalating conflicts, blatant violations of international law, deepening humanitarian crises, and a rising threat of terrorism. He warned that misinformation and fake news are further eroding global trust.
Guided by the vision of Pakistan’s founding father, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Prime Minister reiterated that Pakistan’s foreign policy is rooted in peaceful coexistence. He said the country believes in resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy, not war.
Referring to tensions with India, the Prime Minister recalled that he had warned the same forum last year that any aggression would be met with a decisive response. “That warning proved true in May this year, when India launched unprovoked aggression on our eastern front. Pakistan responded with full force,” he said.
Citing Article 51 of the UN Charter, PM Shehbaz said Pakistan exercised its right to self-defence. He commended the country’s armed forces for their courage under Field Marshal Asim Munir’s command and praised the Pakistan Air Force, under Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, for shooting down seven Indian warplanes during the confrontation.
“We salute our brave soldiers and the families of our martyrs. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten. The strength of our martyrs’ mothers continues to light our path,” the Prime Minister declared emotionally.
He also acknowledged former US President Donald Trump’s efforts for regional peace, noting that Pakistan had once nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of those efforts.
Declaring victory in the face of conflict, PM Shehbaz stated, “We have won the war. Now we want peace in the region. Pakistan is ready for comprehensive and result-oriented talks with India to resolve all pending issues.”
On Kashmir, he assured the Kashmiri people of Pakistan’s unwavering support, expressing hope that they would one day achieve their right to self-determination and end India’s occupation.
Touching on Palestine, he condemned Israel’s decades-long occupation and oppression, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. “Women and children in Gaza are being massacred by Israeli forces, and settlers are attacking Palestinians in the West Bank. This must stop,” he said.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for an independent and sovereign Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. He also condemned Israel’s attack on Qatar and expressed solidarity with the Qatari people.
Addressing global terrorism, PM Shehbaz called for recognition of Pakistan’s sacrifices. “Pakistan has stood as a wall against terrorism and protected the world. Our role must be acknowledged,” he asserted.
He concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace, justice, and development, adding that as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, Pakistan would continue playing its part in conflict prevention and global stability.
