ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have jointly emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to fostering international peace and bolstering an inclusive multilateral system centered around the United Nations. Their statements, made on the occasion of International Day of Peace, highlighted the country’s support for peaceful dispute resolution and a comprehensive conflict prevention strategy.

According to Radio Pakistan, President Zardari noted that Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives to mediate between Iran and the United States have received international recognition. He stressed that enduring peace cannot be achieved where self-determination rights are ignored, and Security Council resolutions remain unenforced, particularly in regions under foreign occupation such as Jammu and Kashmir and the Palestinian territories.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed pride in Pakistan’s role in promoting both regional and international peace. He urged citizens to counteract negative forces like hatred and intolerance by fostering empathy, dialogue, and respect. He emphasized that nurturing a culture of peace is a collective duty involving government bodies, civil society, religious leaders, educators, the media, and families.