President Asif Ali Zardari has conferred the Nishan-e-Imtiaz on United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.
Pakistan awarded Guterres for his distinguished international service and leadership at the United Nations. The award also recognizes his contribution to global peace and development.
The special investiture ceremony took place in Islamabad. It marked the first time Pakistan has conferred the Nishan-e-Imtiaz on a UN Secretary-General.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers, lawmakers and diplomats attended the ceremony.
Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Peace
Earlier, President Zardari met with Secretary-General Guterres and discussed regional peace and stability.
Zardari stressed the importance of sustained dialogue between Pakistan and India. He also called for the resolution of outstanding disputes, particularly Jammu and Kashmir, in line with relevant UN resolutions.
Moreover, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s position on the Indus Waters Treaty. He said the agreement remains legally binding and cannot be unilaterally suspended.
The President also stressed that water should not become a tool of political pressure. Pakistan, he said, expects its rights under the treaty to receive full respect.
Support for Dialogue and Diplomacy
Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and protect human life. He referred to the Islamabad Talks and reaffirmed Pakistan’s willingness to support diplomatic efforts where useful.
He emphasized that dialogue remains essential for resolving regional disputes.
In addition, the President reiterated Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination. He appreciated Guterres’s support for Palestinian statehood and a two-state solution.
Pakistan Highlights Counter-Terrorism Concerns
The President also raised Pakistan’s security concerns linked to Afghanistan.
He said Pakistan continues to face terrorism from groups operating from Afghan territory. He stressed that Afghan soil must not be used against Pakistan or any other country.
At the same time, Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional cooperation and dialogue under international law.
Pakistan’s Role in UN Peacekeeping
Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s longstanding contribution to UN peacekeeping missions.
According to the President, more than 270,000 Pakistani peacekeepers have served in 48 UN missions around the world.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for UN peacekeeping as an important tool for maintaining international peace and security.
Support for UN Reform
The President also welcomed Guterres’s leadership of the UN80 Initiative. He supported efforts to make the United Nations more efficient, coherent and effective.
However, Zardari stressed that reforms must protect the interests of developing countries. He also called for stronger conflict prevention, peacebuilding and sustainable development.
Regarding the UN Security Council, Pakistan supports greater representation through elected, non-permanent members with equitable geographical representation.
Climate Action and Flood Support
Climate change also featured in the discussions. Zardari called for stronger international action on mitigation, adaptation and climate finance.
He also thanked Guterres for his solidarity following Pakistan’s devastating 2022 floods. The UN chief visited affected areas and helped mobilize international support, including through the Geneva pledging process.
Guterres Praises Pakistan’s Resilience
Speaking at the ceremony, Secretary-General António Guterres praised Pakistan’s spirit of hospitality.
He acknowledged the country’s role in providing refuge to millions of people. Guterres also highlighted the resilience and solidarity he witnessed in Pakistan’s fight against terrorism.
The award ceremony underscored Pakistan’s appreciation for Guterres’s role in global diplomacy and his engagement with issues affecting peace, development and vulnerable communities.
Read More Articles:
BRI and GCI: Building Bridges Across Civilizations
