Pakistan seeks UN, UAE support for Kashmir resolution amid regional tensions

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held separate telephone conversations on Wednesday with United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres and United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss escalating tensions in South Asia and emphasize the importance of resolving the Kashmir dispute for lasting regional peace.

The conversation with the UN chief marked the third time the two leaders have spoken in the past two weeks. Sharif thanked Guterres for his "leadership and diplomatic efforts" to de-escalate a "tense situation" between Pakistan and India.

According to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office, the crisis emerged from what Pakistan called “unprovoked and unjustified aggression” by India. Sharif said Pakistan had agreed to a ceasefire in the interest of regional stability.

He praised the UN Secretary-General’s “preventive diplomacy” and called it a demonstration of commitment to the UN Charter.

Sharif criticized India’s military actions, saying they were carried out on “the false pretext of terrorism.” He warned that such moves set a “dangerous precedent” and said the global community should take notice.

He also expressed concern about what he described as “provocative and inflammatory remarks” by Indian leaders, saying they threaten fragile peace in the region.

Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s position that lasting peace in South Asia requires a “just resolution” of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with UN Security Council resolutions. He asked the Secretary-General to use his office to help advance a peaceful settlement.

Guterres welcomed the ceasefire understanding and expressed condolences for civilian casualties on both sides. He said he remains committed to engaging both nations to promote peace and stability, adding that it is his duty to work for international peace.

'Constructive role'

Later the same day, Sharif also held a phone call with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. The Prime Minister thanked the UAE for its “constructive role” in helping defuse the crisis.

He said Pakistan values the UAE’s friendship, noting that the Gulf state had “always stood by Pakistan through thick and thin.”

Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace while also vowing to protect its sovereignty. He also emphasized that Islamabad would not allow the Indus Waters Treaty to be undermined.

During the call, both leaders welcomed the ceasefire agreement and pledged to strengthen economic and investment ties.

The UAE president expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts to maintain peace and said his country supports stability in South Asia.