New York, 24 September 2021 (TDI): Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, met United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The meeting marked the discussion of the situation in Afghanistan, the Kashmir dispute, COVID-19, and Islamophobia.
Regarding Afghanistan, the Foreign Minister reiterated that continued engagement of the international community is necessary for averting a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. He said that it is crucial for the establishment of peace and stability in Afghanistan. He has also apprised the UN Secretary-General about Pakistan’s humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. Pakistan has assisted and created a humanitarian corridor to supply relief goods, including food and medicines to Afghanistan. He has also brought to notice Pakistan’s assistance in the safe evacuation of United Nations personnel and foreign nations from Kabul.
Discussing the issue of Kashmir, the Foreign Minister said that India’s unilateral measures of August 5, 2019, are in direct violation of international law and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution. He stated that India’s actions in the occupied valley are a threat to regional and global peace. The Foreign Minister also presented a dossier to the UN Secretary-General. The dossier comprehensively documents gross human rights violations by India in the Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK). Foreign Minister Qureshi urged him to solve the longstanding dispute of Kashmir as per the UNSC resolution.
Regarding COVID-19, the Foreign Minister said that structured measures should be taken to avoid inequality in the distribution of vaccines among the countries. He further asked the UN Secretary-General to financially assist the developing countries to overcome the havocs induced by the pandemic.
Speaking on Islamophobia, the Foreign Minister requested the Secretary-General to take adequate steps to prevent discriminatory attitudes towards Muslims.
According to a statement issued by United Nations spokesperson, the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres acclaimed Pakistan’s efforts for peace in Afghanistan. He hailed Pakistan for its active participation in UN Peace Operations. He also acknowledged the country for its successful presidency of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
