Karachi: First Lady Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari emphasized the necessity of upholding international humanitarian law and protecting civilian lives, urging that United Nations principles must be equally applied to all human lives, regardless of geography or nationality.
According to Press Information Department, during her address at the United Nations Day 2026 celebrations in Karachi, the First Lady highlighted Pakistan’s enduring partnership with the United Nations in areas such as development, education, humanitarian assistance, and peacekeeping. She underscored the importance of international collaboration in tackling global challenges that no single nation can address alone.
Addressing the plight of civilians in Gaza, she reiterated the need for equal application of UN principles irrespective of geographical or political contexts. The First Lady also reflected on the 2022 floods in Pakistan, acknowledging the critical support from the United Nations and international allies, which underscored the importance of cooperation in crises. She advocated for climate justice, noting that those least responsible for climate change suffer its most severe impacts.
Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari reiterated her dedication to eradicating polio, stating that every child deserves protection from preventable diseases. She acknowledged the efforts of frontline health workers, supported by the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and other partners, in working toward a polio-free Pakistan.
She also highlighted the significance of children’s nutrition and education, endorsing the World Food Programme’s ShareTheMeal campaign, aimed at providing 150,000 nutritious school meals to children across Pakistan. She asserted that school meals can enhance attendance and learning, fostering healthier futures for children.
Reflecting on her mother’s values, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the First Lady emphasized international cooperation, dialogue, education for every child, and opportunities for women. She stated that the UN’s strength lies in the tangible differences it makes in people’s lives and called for continued collective efforts toward a more peaceful and compassionate world.
The United Nations Day celebration, organized by the United Nations in Pakistan in collaboration with various government entities, marked over eight decades of partnership between Pakistan and the UN. The event included an exhibition on Pakistan’s contributions to the UN and featured information booths, career opportunities, and cultural performances. Attendees included MNA Shazia Atta Marri, Sindh Minister for Labour Saeed Ghani, Sindh Education Minister Sardar Shah, and other notable figures.
The First Lady expressed gratitude to the United Nations team in Pakistan for hosting the event in Karachi, allowing the public to gain insight into the organization’s work.