President Asif Ali Zardari Meets UN Secretary-General António Guterres in Doha: Pakistan Reaffirms Support for Global Peace and Justice
DOHA: President Asif Ali Zardari met with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in Doha to discuss major global challenges, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, the Palestinian cause, and global social development under the Doha Political Declaration. The meeting underscored Pakistan’s enduring commitment to the UN’s role in promoting peace, equality, and human progress.
Pakistan’s Strong Voice for Justice and Peace
President Zardari commended Secretary-General Guterres for his leadership in navigating global challenges such as conflict, inequality, and humanitarian crises. He acknowledged the Secretary-General’s consistent support for Pakistan’s stance on major international issues and its contributions to UN peacekeeping missions.
The President reiterated that Pakistan continues to stand with the UN as a key partner in advancing global peace and development. He emphasized that dialogue, multilateral cooperation, and respect for international law are crucial for resolving long-standing disputes.
Focus on Kashmir and the Right to Self-Determination
Highlighting one of South Asia’s most enduring conflicts, President Zardari stressed the urgent need for a fair and lasting resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions. He noted that the continued denial of the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination remains a fundamental obstacle to lasting peace in the region.
The President urged the international community to play a more active role in ensuring justice and accountability in the region, underscoring that peace and stability cannot be achieved through repression or unilateral actions. “Implementation of UN resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir is essential for a peaceful South Asia,” he said.
UN Secretary-General Commends Pakistan’s Efforts
UN Secretary-General António Guterres appreciated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to peacekeeping and international cooperation. He noted that Pakistan remains one of the top contributors to UN peace missions worldwide. Guterres also expressed solidarity with Pakistan in its fight against terr0rism, acknowledging the sacrifices made by the country’s forces and citizens.
He further reaffirmed the UN’s appreciation for Pakistan’s humanitarian contributions and its efforts to promote regional dialogue. Guterres emphasized that peace and justice are essential pillars for sustainable development and applauded Pakistan’s role in advocating both at global forums.
Emphasis on Palestine and Global Human Rights
During the meeting, President Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent State of Palestine within the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
He expressed grave concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and emphasized the urgent need for a permanent ceasefire, humanitarian aid access, and respect for international humanitarian law. “The people of Palestine deserve peace, dignity, and justice,” he said, reaffirming Pakistan’s consistent stance at the United Nations.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s Concern over India’s Water Policies
Also attending the meeting were Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Qatar. Bilawal Bhutto voiced deep concern over India’s actions regarding the use of water as a political weapon against Pakistan.
He stated that India’s withdrawal from existing agreements and its decision to withhold river flow data have resulted in severe environmental and economic challenges for Pakistan. “Weaponizing water violates international norms and puts millions of lives at risk,” Bilawal warned. He called for stronger regional and global advocacy to protect shared resources.
Highlighting Pakistan’s Social Initiatives
President Zardari also discussed Pakistan’s domestic progress on social inclusion and economic empowerment. He presented the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) as a successful model of social protection that has uplifted millions of women and marginalized communities.
“The BISP has become a symbol of empowerment, offering economic independence and dignity to countless families,” he said. The President noted that such programs align closely with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of poverty eradication, gender equality, and social justice.
Doha Political Declaration: A Path Toward Shared Prosperity
President Zardari welcomed the Doha Political Declaration, describing it as a hopeful step toward reviving global commitment to poverty reduction and inclusive development. The Declaration calls for renewed international cooperation to address income inequality, hunger, and climate change — all issues directly affecting Pakistan and other developing nations.
He stressed that multilateral cooperation must be strengthened to address systemic global inequalities. “Shared prosperity depends on shared responsibility,” President Zardari said, adding that Pakistan stands ready to work with global partners to achieve a fairer international order.
Pakistan’s Enduring Role in UN Peacekeeping
Pakistan has long been recognized as one of the most active contributors to the UN peacekeeping forces. President Zardari proudly highlighted the sacrifices and professionalism of Pakistani peacekeepers serving in various conflict zones across the world.
“From Africa to the Middle East, Pakistani peacekeepers have stood on the frontlines of hope,” he said. Their contributions reflect Pakistan’s broader commitment to peace, stability, and humanitarian service. Secretary-General Guterres acknowledged these efforts, noting that Pakistan’s participation remains a cornerstone of the UN’s peacekeeping mission.
Shared Commitment to Global Cooperation
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s full support for the UN’s central role in promoting international peace, justice, and prosperity. Both leaders agreed that collective global action is vital for tackling emerging challenges, including climate change, inequality, and conflict.
President Zardari emphasized that the world must uphold the principles of equality, sovereignty, and respect for human rights. “Pakistan believes in the power of dialogue and cooperation,” he said. “Together, we can build a future defined by peace, justice, and opportunity for all.”
Conclusion
President Asif Ali Zardari’s meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres in Doha highlighted Pakistan’s consistent diplomatic stance: peace through dialogue, justice through law, and prosperity through cooperation. From Kashmir to Palestine, and from social protection to global governance, Pakistan’s message was clear — the country stands firm with the UN in advancing a world guided by fairness, inclusion, and humanity.
The Doha engagement not only reaffirmed Pakistan’s moral and political alignment with the UN Charter but also emphasized its growing voice in shaping global discourse on equality and development.
