United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is set to visit Pakistan as his 10-year tenure as the UN chief approaches its conclusion on December 31.
According to the Foreign Office, Guterres will meet President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir.
During his visit, the UN secretary-general is also scheduled to visit the headquarters of the UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP). He will further attend a briefing at the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) headquarters.
The Foreign Office said Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen multilateralism and promote international peace and security would be highlighted during the visit. The country’s progress in disaster preparedness and early-warning systems will also be discussed.
The visit is expected to provide an opportunity for Pakistan and the UN to review their longstanding cooperation and exchange views on key regional and international developments.
The Foreign Office also praised Guterres’ leadership and contribution to international peace and development during his tenure, while reaffirming Pakistan’s support for multilateralism and the UN Charter.
Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar had indicated that Guterres would visit Pakistan. Dar said a Pakistani delegation had met the UN chief on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session in New York in September, where he extended an invitation to Guterres, which was accepted.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also met Guterres during the UN General Assembly session. The two discussed major regional and international issues, including developments in the Middle East.
During the meeting, Guterres appreciated Pakistan’s role and strong voice at the United Nations, as well as its contribution to international peace and security. He also acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts and sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.
Guterres first visited Pakistan as UN secretary-general in February 2020, around three years after assuming the position.
Meanwhile, two candidates seeking to succeed Guterres have visited Pakistan in recent months and held meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
During separate meetings in July and September, María Fernanda Espinosa and Ambassador Olara Otunnu praised Pakistan’s contribution to international peace efforts and its role in promoting peace.
