UN chief to discuss regional, international issues during Pakistan visit starting tomorrow

Starting tomorrow, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres begins a three-day visit to Pakistan from October 6 to 8. The visit, at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, will see him meet President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and other key officials. Guterres will also tour the headquarters of the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

During his stay, Guterres aims to discuss regional and international developments, highlighting Pakistan's commitment to multilateralism, international peace, security, disaster preparedness, and early-warning systems. Among other topics, the UN chief is expected to converse on Pakistan's role in mediating the US conflict with Iran and its constructive efforts in supporting negotiations between the nations.

Pakistan has a history of using diplomacy and mediation to bring parties together and contribute to the international community through UN peacekeeping efforts, according to UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.

Guterres' visit comes in the aftermath of Pakistan's successful diplomacy in the Middle East conflict, which resulted in a memorandum of understanding that established a ceasefire. During his 2022 visit, Guterres also praised Pakistan's progress in disaster preparedness and resilience following the devastating 2022 monsoon floods.

His upcoming UNMOGIP and NDMA visits will further underscore Pakistan's ongoing cooperation with the United Nations and its steadfast support for multilateralism and the principles of the UN Charter. Upon completing his second five-year term as UN Secretary-General at the end of 2026, Guterres is expected to return to New York on Thursday.