New York, 19 May 2022 (TDI): Pakistani Foreign Minister, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari called on the President of the United Nations General Assembly and Foreign Minister of Maldives, Abdulla Shahid.

The Foreign Minister appreciated the President of the UN body for his excellent leadership during his “Presidency of Hope”. Moreover, he commended Abdulla Shahid on his efforts to develop concrete responses to the challenges confronting the contemporary world.

In the meeting, the Pakistani Foreign Minister highlighted the role of Pakistan as the Chair of Group of 77. He mentioned that Pakistan has worked diligently to advance the development agenda in the General Assembly and other relevant UN forums as the chair of G-77.

Furthermore, he proclaimed that Pakistan and the G-77 aim to ensure COVID vaccine equity, prevent global food crisis, recover from the pandemic, secure fulfillment of climate commitments, and increase investment in sustainable infrastructure in developing countries.

In addition, Bilawal Bhutto said that any decision on the issue of UNSC reform must be reached with the consensus of UN member states. Pakistan, with the ‘United for Consensus’ bloc, opposes the proposed inclusion of India and other states as permanent UNSC members.

Meanwhile, the Foreign Minister noted the recognition of 15th March as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia by the UNGA. He also reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to work with the UNGA for an agreed plan of action to combat Islamophobia.

Kashmir Issue

Finally, the Pakistani Foreign Minister discussed the situation in Kashmir with the President of the UN General Assembly. He underscored that long-term peace between Pakistan and India depends on the resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

Moreover, he reaffirmed that such a resolution should be based on the UN Charter, the relevant UNSC resolutions, and the will of the Kashmiri people.

Additionally, he briefed the PGA on the Indian ‘delimitation’ exercise in IIOJK to alter the demographic composition of the territory. He expressed that Indian actions are in total disregard for international law.

Particularly, India violates the 4th Geneva Convention and the UN Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir dispute. Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto is on a visit to New York for the Global Food Security summit and other meetings.