Astana: During the SCO-Plus summit held today in Astana, Kazakhstan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan called upon the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to enforce an immediate ceasefire in Gaza amidst ongoing hostilities.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in his address, Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the dire need for a free flow of humanitarian aid and the protection of civilians across the Gaza Strip. He highlighted the severe impact of Israel’s military actions, which have resulted in over 37,000 casualties, including thousands of children. The Prime Minister urged the United Nations to facilitate the implementation of resolutions aimed at the peaceful settlement of long-standing disputes.

With Pakistan’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2025-26, Sharif reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to multilateralism and a just resolution of disputes through peaceful means. He stressed Pakistan’s opposition to unilateral military actions and terrorism in all forms.

The Prime Minister also discussed global challenges such as the rise in hate and discrimination, particularly Islamophobia, and the socio-economic impacts of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. He called for united global efforts to address these issues, including fundamental reforms of the international financial architecture to enhance its effectiveness, inclusiveness, and equity.

Highlighting the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s role, Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to advancing the SCO’s agenda, enhancing multilateral institutions, and fostering global cooperation based on the principles of self-determination, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference.