Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the need for sustainable and inclusive development to achieving lasting peace amidst the crises of the times.
He was addressing the UN event titled Sustainable Development, the Path to Global Peace and Prosperity in Vienna today.
The Prime Minister noted that development cannot be called sustainable, if it excludes millions from the promise of a better life. He underscored the importance of pursuing policies that promote inclusion, strengthen social protection and ensure equitable distribution of resources.
He mentioned the challenge posed by Climate Change to developing countries including Pakistan. He said Pakistan contributes less than one percent of global emissions, yet it bears the brunt of cascading impact.
Alluding to the devastation caused by floods in Pakistan in recent years, the Prime Minister said these disasters erode human security. He said development must be anchored in equity, justice and fair play, emphasizing that without these principles, global peace will remain elusive forever.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan remains firmly committed to the ideals of sustainable development.
He said Pakistan has integrated the sustainable development goals into its national development planning, recognizing that economic growth must be inclusive, resilient and responsible. He said our focus is on human development, education, healthcare, food security and social protection. He said we are strengthening institutions, promoting digital transformation and expanding regional connectivity to foster shared prosperity.
Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan has consistently advocated dialogue, diplomacy and multilateralism as the only means to resolve disputes and prevent conflicts. Referring to Pakistan-India conflict of last year, he regretted that our neighbour threatened to weaponize the waters of Indus river system that sustains the lives and livelihoods of Pakistan’s 240 million people.
The Prime Minister said the UN must be reinforced, properly resourced and reformed so that it can continue to serve as the central pillar of global cooperation.
In his opening remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said Pakistan remains steadfast in its commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN charter, recognizing the indispensable role of the UN in global peace, security, sustainable development and promotion of human rights.
Ishaq Dar said Pakistan remains committed to working with all partners for a future where peace, prosperity and sustainable development go hand in hand.
Pakistan and the United Nations agencies also signed three documents of cooperation.
These included United Nations Industrial Development Organization Country Partnership Program for Pakistan 2025-2030; United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Country Program for Pakistan and one between the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology Lahore and the International Atomic Energy Agency.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
