UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday lauded Pakistan for its trusted role as a mediator between the United States and Iran, emphasizing Islamabad’s credibility with both sides as instrumental in creating conditions for negotiations and de-escalation in a highly volatile conflict.
Speaking alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at a joint press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Guterres described Pakistan’s initiative regarding the Gulf conflict as remarkable. He stressed the importance of having countries trusted by opposing parties to facilitate peace talks. “What Pakistan has done in relation to the conflict in the Gulf, namely between the US and Iran, is a remarkable initiative. And what is important is for the world to have countries that can be trusted. That trust Pakistan deserved was essential to allow peace negotiations to take place,” he said.
The UN chief credited Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts with helping to deliver the June 17 Islamabad memorandum of understanding (MoU), which led to a ceasefire and established a framework for future negotiations. He called Pakistan an exemplary mediator and highlighted its role as a demonstration of the value of bridge-building and diplomacy amid deep international divisions.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar noted that Pakistan’s efforts had brought the US and Iran to direct dialogue after 47 years. He described Islamabad’s contribution as a humble yet significant effort grounded in principles of sovereign equality, territorial integrity, non-interference, self-determination, and peaceful dispute resolution.
Guterres urged all parties to end hostilities, return to diplomatic engagement, and fully restore navigational rights and freedoms in line with international law. He also warned that global attention on the wars in Ukraine and the Gulf should not overshadow the suffering of the Palestinian people, describing the scale of death and destruction in Gaza as unprecedented during his tenure.
The UN chief called for an immediate end to the suffering of Palestinians and full implementation of the peace plan. He expressed concern over ongoing violence and settlement activities in the West Bank, cautioning that such developments could jeopardize the two-state solution. He reiterated that lasting peace in the region depends on realizing the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and establishing two states, Palestine and Israel, coexisting peacefully and with mutual respect.
Dar highlighted Pakistan’s consistent support for diplomatic efforts toward peace in Gaza and recalled Pakistan’s participation alongside seven other Arab and Muslim countries in engagement with former US President Donald Trump. He said their sole agenda was achieving peace in Gaza, which contributed to the formulation of a 20-point peace plan.
The deputy prime minister also raised Pakistan’s concerns regarding Jammu and Kashmir, welcoming the UN’s continued reference to the UN framework and Security Council resolutions for resolving the dispute. He urged the international community to ensure the implementation of these resolutions, noting that those concerning Kashmir and Palestine remain unfulfilled.
Dar criticized India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a violation of international law. He urged India to cease “weaponizing water” and fulfill its treaty obligations.
Guterres acknowledged Pakistan’s longstanding humanitarian role in hosting Afghan refugees, noting that millions have found protection in the country over several decades. He affirmed the UN’s commitment to working with Pakistan to uphold protection principles and ensure that Afghan returns are voluntary, safe, and dignified.
Meanwhile, Ishaq Dar voiced concerns over the continued use of Afghan territory for terrorist attacks against Pakistan and called for international cooperation to address this issue. The UN secretary-general recognized Pakistan’s struggle against terrorism, emphasizing that security measures must comply with international law, human rights, and the rule of law.
Both leaders advocated for reforms to the international system, including the UN Security Council and global financial institutions. Guterres pointed out that the Security Council no longer reflects today’s world, highlighting the disproportionate representation with three European permanent members and no permanent representation from Africa, which undermines legitimacy and effectiveness.
He criticized the paralysis caused by divisions among the permanent five members, noting that major powers sometimes initiate conflicts or violate international law, fostering a perception that powerful states act without consequences. Guterres called for Security Council reform to enhance representation and legitimacy and urged major powers to unite when fundamental principles of international law are at stake.
He also emphasized the need for developing countries to gain better access to development finance, debt relief, and concessional funding. Dar reiterated Pakistan’s strong support for multilateralism and highlighted its efforts to promote negotiation, mediation, and preventive diplomacy during its current Security Council term. He cited Pakistan’s initiative on Resolution 2788, which strengthens multilateralism and peaceful dispute resolution, and called for reform of international financial institutions, noting that the post-World War II global financial architecture no longer suits today’s realities.
Guterres paid tribute to Pakistan’s longstanding contribution to UN peacekeeping, acknowledging the courage of Pakistani personnel who have served in some of the world’s most dangerous missions. He noted that over 180 Pakistani peacekeepers have lost their lives in service and honored their sacrifice. He also praised Pakistan and Denmark for their leadership on Security Council Resolution 2823, which enhances accountability for crimes against UN peacekeepers. Guterres, 156 countries co-sponsored this resolution, marking the highest number of co-sponsors for a Security Council resolution in UN history. He announced plans to honor UN peacekeepers during his visit to the UN mission memorial in Islamabad.
Climate change was another key issue addressed by the UN chief, who recalled his visit to Pakistan during the devastating 2022 floods. He acknowledged Pakistan’s frontline position in facing climate change despite its minimal contribution to global emissions. Guterres praised Pakistan’s resilience and its role in advancing the international agenda on loss and damage, as well as its transition toward cleaner energy.
However, he stressed that vulnerable developing countries cannot bear the burden alone. He pointed out that the G20 accounts for about 80% of global emissions and must significantly reduce emissions this decade. Developed nations must fulfill commitments made at COP29 by providing finance, technology, and support for climate resilience and a just transition.
Guterres also commended Pakistan’s broader commitment to multilateralism, noting that Islamabad has prioritized dialogue, mediation, and diplomacy throughout its two-year Security Council tenure.
Leave an opinion