Islamabad, Sep 25: During the United Nations ‘Summit of the Future’ in New York, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif emphasized that no sustainable development could occur as long as tragedies like Gaza persist, condemning the ongoing Israeli attacks that have resulted in over 41,000 Palestinian deaths.
His speech, part of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), highlighted the need for global cooperation to address challenges of security and development.
Asif called for the implementation of the ‘Pact for the Future,’ a strategy to revitalize development and reform the unequal international financial system.
He stressed the importance of fulfilling longstanding financial commitments to developing countries, addressing the $4 trillion Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) financing gap, and supporting the Secretary General’s SDG Stimulus proposal. Additional measures included enhancing development aid, improving lending practices, and reforming institutions like the World Trade Organization.
In parallel, Asif stressed bridging the global digital divide and ensuring equitable governance in the digital sphere, particularly in relation to Artificial Intelligence.
Separately, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar reiterated Pakistan’s stance on peace, asserting that lasting global stability is unattainable without resolving the conflicts in Palestine and Kashmir.
He called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and accountability for Israel’s actions, while also reaffirming that these issues will be raised by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in his engagements at the UN. Tarar also noted the restoration of Pakistan’s relations with international partners following past diplomatic strains.
