Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conducted important meetings with the presidents of Iran and Syria, as well as the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
In a significant development, Shehbaz met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran, alongside the broader regional situation. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was also present at the meeting. Accompanying the prime minister were Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.
Meanwhile, Shehbaz held talks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, reaffirming Pakistan’s longstanding and fraternal ties with Syria. He emphasized Pakistan’s unwavering support for Syria’s sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity, and political independence. The prime minister also extended best wishes for Syria’s ongoing efforts toward national stabilization, peace, and economic recovery.
The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation through increased high-level exchanges and collaboration in trade, investment, education, and information technology. Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to assist in Syria’s reconstruction and economic revival. Both leaders exchanged views on regional developments, with Shehbaz underscoring Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and a just, lasting resolution of the Palestine issue in accordance with relevant UN resolutions and international law.
In another key meeting, the prime minister engaged with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, expressing gratitude for the Fund’s ongoing support for Pakistan’s economy. Shehbaz reaffirmed his government’s dedication to implementing the IMF-backed reform program and sustaining the momentum of economic reforms.
He highlighted Pakistan’s transition from macroeconomic stabilization toward economic recovery despite challenges such as regional conflicts and external inflationary pressures. The prime minister pointed to improved fiscal discipline, stronger external buffers, and growing investor confidence as positive indicators. Discussions also covered the upcoming IMF program review and the continuation of cooperative efforts to advance reforms, bolster economic resilience, and promote sustainable growth.
Georgieva acknowledged Pakistan’s progress under the IMF program and commended the government’s efforts toward economic stabilization, noting that the measures are producing tangible results.
Earlier during his visit, Shehbaz met with delegations of Pakistani community members and young professionals residing in the United States. The youth delegation included healthcare workers, IT and artificial intelligence specialists, social entrepreneurs, heads of youth NGOs, and other professionals.
The prime minister encouraged the Pakistani youth abroad to contribute ideas for national development and emphasized their role as a source of pride for Pakistan. He highlighted government initiatives aimed at empowering youth through information technology, artificial intelligence, and modern skill development.
Shehbaz also mentioned programs such as laptops and scholarships for talented youth, as well as Daanish Schools for underprivileged students. Notably, he announced the establishment of a world-class Daanish University to further support educational advancement.
The youth representatives expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts in youth development, particularly in the fields of IT and improving the ease of doing business.
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