New York (TDI): Pakistan’s parliamentary delegation led by Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman and former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has apprised the US that South Asia cannot afford perpetual conflict.
The message was conveyed in a meeting with Ambassador Dorothy Shea, currently serving as the acting US Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
The delegation, which includes nine senior parliamentarians, is visiting the US to present Islamabad’s viewpoint following the recent escalation with India and to counter New Delhi’s international narrative.
In discussions with US officials, the Pakistani group reiterated the country’s longstanding ties with Washington, particularly in counterterrorism cooperation and shared efforts to ensure regional peace.
Bilawal Bhutto praised former President Donald Trump and his administration for their role in facilitating a ceasefire between the two nuclear neighbors last month.
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He reiterated Pakistan’s determination in the pursuit of peace, but also emphasized the country’s right to retort vigorously against any threats to its sovereignty
The delegation stressed that the Indus Waters Treaty must be preserved, warning against any attempts to weaponize water.
It emphasized that a durable ceasefire and sustained dialogue, especially over the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, are essential for long-term peace in the region.
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“Dialogue, not confrontation, must define South Asia’s future,” the delegation stated.
“The issue of Jammu and Kashmir remains unresolved on the UN agenda, and must be addressed through collective diplomatic efforts, not military posturing.”
In addition to US officials, the delegation also held talks with representatives of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
It highlighted the deteriorating human rights situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir and raised concerns over rising Islamophobia in India.
They also drew attention to widespread disinformation efforts aimed at discrediting the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.
“The Muslim world must speak in one voice to reject such narratives and stand firmly for justice,” the delegation urged.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
