Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to meet with US President Donald Trump and a select group of Muslim leaders on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, signaling Pakistan’s proactive engagement in global diplomacy. This high-level meeting, announced on Sunday, underscores Pakistan’s intent to participate in discussions on regional peace, security, and humanitarian issues, particularly amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. By including Muslim leaders in these discussions, the Prime Minister aims to foster a collaborative approach toward resolving critical challenges affecting the Islamic world and beyond.
The Prime Minister will visit the United States from September 22 to 26, leading a delegation comprising Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, other cabinet ministers, and senior officials. The main purpose of this visit is to attend the annual UNGA session, a key platform where global leaders converge to deliberate on pressing international issues. Participation in this forum allows Pakistan to voice its perspectives on security, development, and humanitarian concerns while strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations.
According to a Foreign Office statement, Prime Minister Sharif will engage in a special meeting with President Trump and Islamic leaders to discuss urgent regional and international matters concerning peace and security. This engagement provides an opportunity for Pakistan to highlight its role as a stabilizing force in the region and to advocate for coordinated international efforts to address conflicts and humanitarian crises.
In his address to the General Assembly, Sharif is expected to urge the global community to address “prolonged” conflicts, with particular emphasis on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He will call for decisive international action to mitigate the suffering of Palestinian civilians, highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of oppressed populations.
Beyond regional issues, the Prime Minister will outline Pakistan’s perspective on broader security challenges, including the fight against terrorism, climate change, and the rising tide of Islamophobia. He will also address sustainable development concerns, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to global development goals and international cooperation.
During the UNGA session, Sharif will participate in multiple high-level events, including meetings of the UN Security Council, the Global Development Initiative (GDI), and a Special High-Level Event on Climate Action. These engagements offer opportunities for bilateral discussions with world leaders and UN officials to exchange insights and explore avenues for collaboration on issues of shared interest.
Emphasizing Pakistan’s dedication to multilateralism, Sharif will reaffirm the country’s commitment to upholding the UN Charter, preventing conflict, fostering peace, and promoting global prosperity. His statements will also reflect Pakistan’s responsibilities and contributions as a current member of the UN Security Council, highlighting the nation’s active role in shaping international policy.
The Foreign Office concluded by noting that the Prime Minister’s participation in this largest annual gathering of global leaders will demonstrate Pakistan’s continued commitment to the United Nations and its long-standing contributions to peace, development, and multilateral diplomacy worldwide. This visit aims to strengthen Pakistan’s global image and reaffirm its position as a constructive actor on the international stage.
