Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, one of the nation’s highest civilian honours, upon United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday. This award recognises Guterres’s contributions to global peace and international diplomacy. The ceremony took place during Guterres’s official three-day visit to Pakistan, marking the first instance in which a UN Secretary-General has received this distinguished accolade.

Key Discussions on Regional Issues

During their meeting, Zardari and Guterres engaged in discussions concerning crucial matters of peace and stability in South Asia. Topics included the Indus Waters Treaty, which governs water sharing between India and Pakistan, and regional diplomacy in the context of ongoing tensions. Zardari reiterated that the Indus Waters Treaty is a binding international agreement that should not be unilaterally suspended, following its suspension in 2025 after a deadly terror attack.

Moreover, the President emphasised that Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives are aimed at fostering dialogue and de-escalation in the region. He affirmed the country’s commitment to facilitating constructive dialogue on issues that affect regional peace, noting that dialogue remains the only viable solution to disputes. The conversation also touched on the ongoing conflict in Palestine, with Zardari expressing Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestinian self-determination.

Further discussions highlighted the pressing issue of terrorism, with Zardari referencing evidence of militant activities originating from Afghan territory. He asserted that such territory should not be exploited against Pakistan or any other nation, reiterating the need for international collaboration to tackle security challenges. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to safety and adherence to international law while fostering peaceful relations with its neighbours.

Pakistan’s Advocacy for Global Issues

At the ceremony, Zardari praised the contributions of Pakistani peacekeepers to international stability, noting that over 270,000 personnel have participated in 48 UN missions worldwide. He called for robust international cooperation to address climate change, advocating for urgent actions regarding mitigation and adaptation, as well as enhanced climate financing. These topics illustrate Pakistan’s emphasis on contributing to global stability and sustainability.

In his remarks, Guterres acknowledged Pakistan’s generosity in hosting numerous refugees, reflecting on the resilience of the nation amidst ongoing challenges, including terrorism and climate-related disasters. He expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s continued advocacy for Palestinian rights and the importance of addressing global issues collectively.

The ceremony served as a significant opportunity for both leaders to articulate their respective positions on various regional and global challenges. Through this formal recognition of Guterres’s contributions, Pakistan aims to strengthen its engagement with the international community while addressing pressing humanitarian and security issues.

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